Anti-Fascists Outnumber Far Right in Islington Protest Showdown
UPDATE: In a powerful display of solidarity, approximately 700 anti-racists confronted around 150 far-right demonstrators at the Thistle Barbican Hotel in Islington, North London, on July 22, 2023. This urgent standoff was sparked by far-right groups targeting the hotel, which houses refugees, with inflammatory rhetoric aimed at inciting fear and hatred.
The anti-fascist demonstration quickly gained momentum as supporters filled the streets, waving peace signs and showing solidarity with hotel residents, who appeared at windows in support. The counter-protest lasted for several hours, emphasizing the community’s rejection of hate.
Mohammed Kozbar, a representative from the Finsbury Park Mosque, addressed the crowd, stating, “We are all united against fascism. There is no place in Islington for these people.” He highlighted recent incidents of racism in the area, stating, “Racist stickers were seen around the mosque attacking the Muslim community, refugees, and Palestine.”
The urgency of this gathering reflects broader concerns regarding the rise of far-right sentiments in the UK. Demonstrator Mike, a union representative from City and Islington sixth form center, noted, “We have had students from refugee backgrounds. We try to create a culture of love and respect. There are reasons why people drift to their politics. But there is no excuse for it.”
Protesters, including a woman visiting from the United States, expressed shock at the far-right’s presence in Britain but were encouraged by the large turnout against them. “I’m glad there is a larger group standing up against them,” she remarked.
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, representing the nearby Islington North constituency, encouraged participation in the counter-demonstration organized by Stand Up To Racism (SUTR). “We stand together, all of our communities, against all hate, be it antisemitism, Islamophobia, or far-right racism,” he stated, underscoring the importance of unity in the face of rising hate groups.
The protest served as a significant setback for far-right factions, which have been gaining confidence in organizing across various locations, including recent rallies in Edinburgh, Leeds, and Oxford. However, the presence of far-right groups in places like Portsmouth and Bournemouth indicates a troubling trend that anti-racists are determined to challenge.
Activist Jan from SUTR detailed the extensive preparation for the protest, including mass leafleting efforts that reached several communities. “We had lots of women on the leafleting sessions saying it’s not refugees we fear. It’s people like Nigel Farage,” she explained, emphasizing the grassroots nature of the movement.
As anti-fascists continue to mobilize, the significance of this protest cannot be overstated. It serves as a crucial reminder of the community’s resilience and determination to counter hate. The outcome of this confrontation has implications that extend beyond Islington, as the struggle against far-right movements persists across the UK.
The collective response from anti-racists reinforces the message that organized hate will not go unchallenged. As the situation develops, the focus will shift to how communities can sustain this momentum and continue to foster inclusivity against a backdrop of increasing extremism.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds and further actions are anticipated in the coming days.
