Massive Peaceful Protest Against Far Right in London
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, organisers reported that an estimated half a million people gathered in London for what they described as the biggest demonstration ever against the far right. The peaceful protest, aimed at opposing hatred, division, and racism, saw a massive turnout that significantly outnumbered previous far-right rallies.
March Through the Capital
Protesters carried placards with messages such as No to racism, no to Trump and Refugees welcome as they marched through London to Whitehall. The event was marked by a heavy police presence, with officers lining the streets to ensure order. Organisers highlighted that this demonstration successfully outnumbered the Tommy Robinson-led Unite the Kingdom rally in September 2025, which had drawn between 110,000 and 150,000 attendees, compared to only about 5,000 at an anti-racism counter-demonstration at that time.
Kevin Courtney, rally co-organiser and chairman of the coalition, addressed the crowds on Whitehall, stating, Our estimate is now that there are half a million people on this demonstration – the biggest demonstration ever against the far right. And it gives us all confidence to carry on.
Organisers' Perspectives on Far-Right Growth
Sabby Dhalu, joint secretary of the Together Alliance and co-convenor of Stand Up To Racism, noted that the UK is experiencing an unprecedented growth in support for far-right organisations. However, she believed the size of Saturday's attendance had intimidated the far right away from staging a counter-protest. She emphasised, We believe that the majority of British people stand against the hatred and division and racism that was being encouraged at that demonstration and by these types of organisations, and it’s time to act.
When asked about concerns over potential counter-protests and disorder, Ms. Dhalu expressed confidence, saying, We’re confident that the size of our mobilisation here today has actually intimidated the far-right, and I think they feel that they are not confident enough to stand against us because they know that we’re going to be out in big numbers.
Cultural and Political Voices at the Rally
Singer Billy Bragg performed protest songs onstage at Whitehall, having previously criticised US president Donald Trump as a constant reminder of the cruel realities of the politics of division. He addressed migration concerns, stating, Re migration, the forced deportation of our fellow citizens, we’ve seen what that looks like in the United States of America. And if it does come to that in this country then we will have to be as courageous as the people of Minneapolis who stood in the streets to deny (deportations).
Organisers estimated around 20,000 people gathered in Trafalgar Square for a related event featuring musical performers, including former Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock. Additionally, an estimated thousand people marched specifically against Christian nationalism.
Religious and Community Support
The Bishop of Croydon, Rosemarie Mallett, told a church service ahead of the demonstration that she stood with all people of goodwill who seek to build diverse and inclusive communities. She and other Christians are committed to building bridges rather than barriers and to living out Jesus’s command to love our neighbours. This comes after Church of England bishops earlier this year rejected the use of Christian symbols by those trying to intimidate others, amid community anxiety over flag displays.
Counter-Protests and Police Measures
As the rally began, a small group of around 10 counter-protesters shouted, with one member carrying an Israeli flag. A separate march organised by the Palestine Coalition also took place, joining the route of the Together Alliance before the groups assembled for the rally on Whitehall. Officers imposed public order conditions, banning the joint rally from continuing after 5pm to prevent disruption.
Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union (NEU), speaking ahead of the demonstration, accused some in power of using racism to feather their own nests. He highlighted that a toxic climate in society is affecting schools, with an increase in racist incidents directed at staff and pupils.
Police Preparedness and Additional Protests
Met Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell stated that it was a busy weekend for our officers, but detailed plans were in place to ensure all protesting groups could do so lawfully without causing serious disruption to Londoners, businesses, or visitors. In addition to the mass demonstration, protests against the Iranian regime, including static assemblies and marches, were occurring in the Westminster area over the weekend, as reported by the Metropolitan Police.
