in-pictures:-the-huge-anti-racism-march-in-walthamstow

In pictures: the huge anti-racism march in Walthamstow

Londoners came out in droves to join a peaceful protest against racism, fascism and Islamophobia after the surge in far-right violence across the UK this week.

Approximately 10,000 people took to the streets of Walthamstow last night around 6.30pm, chanting and carrying signs with messages like ‘refugees welcome’ and ‘smash fascism and racism’. The crowd was visible from as far as a mile away, according to reports from PA news.   

Anti-fascist protestors in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Jez King

 

Anti-fascist protest signs in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Lucy Amis
Anti-fascist protestors carry signs in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Lucy Amis

The counter-protest was one of several organised across the country in response to rumours that right-wing agitators would target immigration centres on Wednesday night. Walthamstow, Harrow and Finchley were among the locations featured in a list of potential targets circulating online, with police presence boosted in anticipation of activity.

All three boroughs witnessed demonstrations standing in solidarity with immigrants and minorities. Other peaceful protests took place in Lewisham and Brentford as well as other UK cities like Birmingham and Sheffield. 

Anti-fascist protestors and police in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Jez King
Anti-fascist protestors in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Jez King

The uptick in far-right violence over the past week was triggered by online misinformation regarding the identity of the perpetrator of a stabbing attack in Southport which killed three girls. These false claims fuelled a wave of violent attacks on mosques, refugee housing facilities and minority-owned businesses across England and Wales.

Anti-fascist sign in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Lucy Amis

 

Anti-fascist sign in Walthamstow in London.
Photograph: Lucy Amis

ICYMI: How to support communities during the ongoing riots in the UK.

Plus, the Migration Museum is getting a permanent home in the City of London.

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