Thousands gather for anti-racism rally in Belfast after disorder
Thousands gather for anti racism rally – Following a week of unrest in Belfast, hundreds of people took to the streets on Saturday to demonstrate against racism. The protests came in response to violence that targeted homes, businesses, and vehicles across the city. A knife attack in north Belfast on Monday night, which left a victim seriously injured, ignited the chaos, leading to a man being charged with attempted murder.
Rally Details
The “Together Against Hate” event commenced at Belfast City Hall around 1:00 PM. Police closed roads to accommodate the growing crowd. Attendees included representatives from political parties and trade unions, with some displaying banners that read: “Strike back against racism,” “Refugees welcome,” and “Riots don’t speak for Belfast.” The protest, organized by United Against Racism, reported attendance of up to 20,000 participants.
Community Voices
“This week we witnessed something we will never forget. The scenes of families and young children fleeing their homes in terror,” said Ivanka Antova.
“The whole world watched Belfast in horror. There is nothing legitimate about racist pogroms, and racism has no place in our city,” she added.
Antova highlighted the solidarity shown to volunteers who evacuated people, served meals, and supported fearful communities. Carmel Gates of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions commended healthcare workers, firefighters, and teachers for their efforts during the crisis. She also urged the far right to “get out of our communities,” emphasizing the need to end division and sectarianism.
“Worker’s rights are migrant’s rights, same struggle, same fight,” Gates led a chant with the crowd.
Elaine Crory, from the Women’s Resource and Development Agency, spoke about the violence’s impact on women and girls. “Nothing about this violence supports the safety of women and girls in our community,” she said. Attendees expressed “disgust and rage” over the recent incidents, with many arriving at the rally out of concern for their safety.
Rebuilding Unity
Participants like Mohamed Eltayeb, who has lived in Belfast for nearly two decades, emphasized the importance of peaceful protest. “The correct way to react to anger is through civilized demonstrations,” he stated, noting that his family members had reached out to check on his well-being.
“After attending the rally, I felt reassured and no longer rejected in this community,” said Manal Mahdi, a mother of a student preparing for GCSE exams. She described the week as “beyond description” and “startling,” with many children “traumatised” and “stressed” about schoolwork.
Raied Al-Wazzan, representing the Belfast Islamic Centre, attended to show solidarity with ethnic minorities. “I saw a lot of love in Belfast today,” he said, contrasting the recent street hatred with acts like neighbors delivering food and nurses being escorted to work.
To date, 23 arrests have been made, 17 individuals charged, five bailed, and one referred to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS). The rally marked a collective effort to rebuild trust and unity in the wake of the unrest.
