A COUNTER-PROTEST against a planned far-right demonstration is set to take place in Glasgow this weekend.
The rally, organised by Stand Up To Racism (SUTR), was set up in response to a “pro-UK” rally promoted by far-right figures including Tommy Robinson.
Whilst organisers deny that the “pro-UK” rally is far-right or racist, SUTR has claimed the organisers have links with individuals and organisations with a history of Islamophobia, anti-semitism and activism in fascist groups.
The group called on people to join “anti-racists, trade unionists, faith organisations, refugee groups and many more” in solidarity.
It comes after John Swinney made a statement in Holyrood declaring there was no place for “right-wing thuggery” in Scotland.
Advertising the counter-demonstration on social media, SUTR said: “Don’t let the far-right divide us. Refugees welcome – nae Nazis in Glasgow.”
This is the week. A broad coalition of forces behind the #StandUpToRacism demo is coming together this Sat to #StopTheFarRight The news that the AfD, with a neo-Nazi wing, has won German state elections underlines the dangers we face. Unity in action can stop the far-right. pic.twitter.com/ujlJLwGvqt
— Stand Up to Racism - Scotland (@SUTRScotland) September 2, 2024
A Scottish independence march organised by All Under One Banner in Edinburgh was rescheduled to allow supporters to attend the Glasgow demonstration instead.
Here’s everything you need to know about Saturday’s counter-protest.
When is the rally?
The counter-demonstration will take place on Saturday from 12pm.
Where is the rally?
The rally is in George Square, Glasgow, where the "pro-UK" demonstration has also been planned.
Who is speaking at the rally?
Speakers include Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie, Jonathon Shafi of Stop the War Coalition Scotland, Linda Somerville of the Scottish Trades Union Congress, Dr Issam Hijjawi of the Palestine Democratic Forum, and several other trade unionists and campaign group leaders.
SPEAKERS ANNOUNCED Trade unions, football fans & campaigners #StandUpToRacism in #Glasgow on Saturday We've revealed racist rally we're opposing has links to Islamophobes, antisemites & fascists We will reject them in unity & through mass numbers#RefugeesWelcome #StopFarRight pic.twitter.com/VJH55ZDZy4
— Stand Up to Racism - Scotland (@SUTRScotland) September 5, 2024
Organisers also confirmed figures from the SNP and Scottish Labour would also be speaking, but did not specify names.
Who has endorsed the rally?
The counter-protest has received many endorsements, from both political figures, campaigners and even celebrities.
Comedian Janey Godley, Irish rap trio Kneecap and singer-songwriter Lisa O’Neill are among the celebreties backing the rally.
Plus, a total of nine trade unions have also endorsed the rally, encouraging members to show up on Saturday in solidarity.
