What I Learnt About The Power Of Solidarity After Attending My Hometown's Anti-Fascist Protests
I've attended many protests and demonstrations over the years, but only one in my hometown of Southend. It's not a place known for large-scale demonstrations; in fact, the only significant protest I recall was a small climate change march, with barely 20 people walking down the high street. So, when I heard that counter-demonstrations were taking place where I grew up earlier this week, I knew I had to be there to stand with them. The recent surge in far-right rioters and the ensuing media coverage has been alarming, with videos circulating online showing people being discriminated against, insulted, harassed, and even assaulted simply because they were 'not white'. The thought of such thuggery descending on our town was unsettling. Across the country, local businesses were boarding up their shop windows in anticipation of violence, and a palpable sense of fear hung in the air with many people fearing stepping outside of their front doors.
In preparation for the counter-demonstration, I joined a local group on WhatsApp filled with women coordinating efforts to show solidarity with the BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) community. On Tuesday evening, our group chat buzzed with messages of support, hope, and solidarity. Some expressed concerns, with a few members admitting they couldn't attend due to their children's pleas for them to stay home for safety. The messages of support poured in, with people offering car rides to those who needed them, suggesting parking spots on side streets for quick escapes if necessary, and sharing infographics on how to stay safe during a protest.
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While there was a noticeable police presence as I arrived at the demo on Wednesday night, it was clear that all of the attendees were all looking out for one another. As I scouted the area before joining the counter-demo, I encountered a man sitting on a bench who made a snide comment: 'Smile, love.' I chose to ignore him, unsure if he was addressing me. But when he repeated, 'Smile, you're in England, something to smile about, isn't it?' I knew immediately that his words were loaded with misogyny and racism. His comment echoed the sentiments of the far-right groups—this is England, and they wanted 'their country back'.
I continued walking toward the counter-demo group, determined not to engage or give him the reaction he might have wanted. As I moved through the crowd, I saw many familiar faces, including the women from the WhatsApp group. People held up signs and banners, chanting and singing together. The atmosphere was one of warmth, with hugs and greetings exchanged among friends and strangers alike.
In recent years, the government has implemented stricter protest laws, making it more difficult for demonstrations to take place. Just recently, several members of the environmental group Just Stop Oil were arrested and collectively sentenced to 21 years in prison. The demonisation of protestors is something I’ll never fully understand because. Activists do this because they care deeply about the issues at hand. Despite the risks, we were there to stand up for what we believed in.
As the demonstration progressed, people in high-visibility jackets moved through the crowd, ensuring everyone's safety. The atmosphere remained peaceful until a large group of far-right supporters began to move toward us. In an instant, everyone stepped forward, forming a protective line at the front. The far-right group hesitated, likely realising that they were outnumbered, and eventually backed off. Throughout the night, our group chat continued to buzz with updates about the movements of the far-right groups, ensuring that everyone stayed aware and safe as we moved as one unit in solidarity.
The events of Wednesday night in Southend were just one of many counter-demonstrations happening across the country. An estimated 10,000 anti-fascist protesters took to the streets of Walthamstow, London earlier this week, while a 2,000-strong crowd fought back against the rioters in Bristol. These acts of unity against racism have become a shining example of what can happen when communities come together. The broader implications of these counter-protests are significant, not only for the local communities involved but also for society as a whole.
Counter-protests serve as a powerful reminder that there is strength in numbers. When people unite to stand against hate and discrimination, they send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated. This kind of unity has the potential to create real change by challenging the narratives perpetuated by far-right groups and fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. It shows that when individuals come together, they can collectively resist the forces of division and bigotry.
Moreover, counter-protests highlight the importance of grassroots activism in effecting change. These demonstrations are often organised by ordinary citizens who are passionate about creating a better world. They remind us that we all have a role to play in shaping the future and that even small acts of resistance can contribute to larger movements for social justice.
The potential for these demonstrations to create lasting change is significant. By standing up against racism and bigotry, counter-protesters not only challenge the far-right but also inspire others to do the same. This can lead to a ripple effect, where more people feel empowered to speak out against injustice and join the fight for a more equitable society.
The fight against hate is far from over, but the events of that night, and others like it, give me hope. They show that when we come together, we can create change and build a better world for future generations. The power of unity cannot be underestimated, and it is this unity that will ultimately pave the way for a more just and compassionate society.
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