Far-right rally in London highlights growing tensions over immigration and free speech.
In a significant display of political sentiment, tens of thousands gathered in London for a rally organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, reflecting a surge in support for the anti-immigrant Reform UK party. The Metropolitan Police estimated that approximately 110,000 participants joined the “Unite the Kingdom” march, which commenced from two locations-Waterloo Bridge and Lambeth Bridge-before converging on Whitehall, adjacent to the UK Parliament.
Participants waved a variety of flags, including Union Jacks, the St George’s Cross, and the Israeli Star of David, while chanting slogans targeting Labour leader Keir Starmer. The rally featured prominent far-right speakers, including Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, alongside figures like Katie Hopkins and Steve Bannon.
Robinson’s Message: Free Speech and Heritage
Robinson framed the rally as a defense of free speech and British heritage, asserting that migrants now possess greater legal rights than the native population. His rhetoric resonated with many attendees, who expressed frustration over perceived injustices related to immigration and social services. “We built this nation, and now we’re being sidelined,” one participant remarked, echoing sentiments shared by others in the crowd.
The Metropolitan Police deployed over 1,600 officers to maintain order, particularly to separate Robinson’s rally from a counter-protest organized by the “Stand Up to Racism” group, which attracted around 5,000 participants. The police reported instances of aggression directed at officers, leading to nine arrests as tensions escalated between the two groups.
Counter-Protest: A Stand Against Racism
The counter-protest featured left-wing lawmakers, including Zarah Sultana and Diane Abbott, who rallied against the far-right movement. Protesters held signs proclaiming “refugees welcome” and “smash the far right,” while chanting “stand up, fight back.” The “Stand Up to Racism” campaign group condemned the violence directed at their members, questioning the characterization of Robinson’s supporters as “ordinary people.”
This rally and counter-protest occurred against the backdrop of a summer marked by heightened tensions surrounding immigration in the UK. Protests erupted outside hotels housing asylum seekers, particularly following the conviction of an Ethiopian man for sexually assaulting a minor. Such incidents have fueled anti-immigrant sentiments, leading to increased visibility for far-right groups.
The Political Landscape: Reform UK’s Rise
Robinson’s rally also coincides with the growing prominence of the Reform UK party, which has emerged as a significant political force in recent months. Polls indicate that if a general election were held today, Reform UK could potentially become the largest party in the UK. This shift reflects a broader trend in British politics, where issues of immigration and national identity have taken center stage.
At the rally, attendees displayed placards with messages such as “send them home” and “stop the boats,” referencing the perilous journeys undertaken by asylum seekers across the English Channel. One woman who traveled from Scotland expressed her frustration over the visibility of homelessness among British citizens, suggesting that empty buildings should be utilized to provide shelter for both the homeless and immigrants.
Historical Context: The Rise of Far-Right Movements
Robinson, a co-founder of the English Defence League (EDL), has been a polarizing figure in British politics for over a decade. The EDL emerged in 2009 as a response to perceived threats from radical Islam, and Robinson has since become one of the most influential figures in the far-right movement. His rhetoric often centers on themes of nationalism and cultural preservation, resonating with a segment of the population that feels marginalized by mainstream political discourse.
While the turnout for the “Unite the Kingdom” rally was substantial, it paled in comparison to other recent mass mobilizations, such as the pro-Palestinian march in November 2023, which attracted an estimated 300,000 participants. This contrast highlights the varying levels of public engagement on different political issues, as well as the complexities of the current political landscape in the UK.
Conclusion
The “Unite the Kingdom” rally underscores the growing polarization within British society regarding immigration and national identity. As far-right movements gain traction, the response from anti-racist groups remains crucial in shaping the discourse around these contentious issues. The events of the weekend serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle over free speech, cultural heritage, and the future of the UK’s political landscape.
