SAR Statement Against Fascist Riots

In the past weeks, we have seen racist and fascist rioters terrorise the streets of the UK.

We have watched in horror as Black, Asian and migrant neighbours and communities have come under attack by far right mobs. Mosques and asylum hotels have been threatened. People of colour across the country are living with heightened fear and anxiety.

This situation did not begin with the tragedy in Southport. The week before, 15,000 of Tommy Robinson’s fascists convened in Trafalgar Square, a culmination of years of sowing hatred, Islamophobia and promoting white supremacy. For decades our governments have normalised anti-immigrant sentiments allowing Muslims, Black people and immigrants to become scapegoats for the decline in living standards for all Britons.

However, there is hope. In cities and towns across the UK many tens of thousands have come out onto the streets to say NO TO RACISM, NO TO FACISM and NOT IN MY NAME. As others have said, ‘we are the many; they are the few’. We need a permanent change. We need to hold all politicians to account for their rhetoric that endangers immigrants, refugees, Black and Brown and other racialised communities. 

What can you do? Contact your local politicians and demand that they stand against racism; and work to stop the racist rhetoric used to fuel racist violence. Take Action through anti-racist protests when communities of colour are threatened. Unite against the far right.

Stroud Against Racism believes that everybody should be able to live free from the fear of racism. We exist to fight structural racism, and work to build a community in Stroud and the region that is welcoming and safe for all. We stand in solidarity at this time with all communities of colour and encourage you to reach out to us if you need support. 

Please email us at: sagainstracism@gmail.com