Anti-racism protest is held in Worcester City Centre

Protesters gathered outside the Guildhall today (Saturday, August 10) to declare refugees are always welcome in the Faithful City and that there was no room for hate in Worcester. 

The hour-long Rally for Unity was hosted by the Worcester Trades Union Council to show the city will remain strong alongside its Muslim and ethnic minority communities. 
UNITED FOR PEACE- People united in their protest. (Image: Ryan Smith) It comes in response to the far-right riots that have blighted cities across the country over the past week. 

Imam Rahat Ahmed of the Al Madina Masjid muslim centre told the Worcester News seeing the reaction of the city following these riots has given him hope. 

“Looking at this event I am really happy, the atmosphere was so welcoming and there was so much hope and love, it was amazing.”

In his earlier speech, he said ideology of the far-right rioters was wrong and urged people to say no to violence, crime, vandalism and hatred. 

“Islam does not promote violence, Islam promotes harmony, happiness and unity.

“My message is today, to the Worcester community, that we do not accept hate and crime in this city, we want to build this Worcester city together.”

A passionate crowd held signs in the air saying slogans such as ‘refugees are always welcome’, ‘stand up to racism’, ‘united for peace kindness and friendship’ and ‘solidarity’. 
People made their feelings clear (Image: Ryan Smith)

People travelled from across the county to attend, including representatives from Bromsgrove and Redditch Welcomes Refugees. 

Speakers came from trade unions, anti-racism and pro-refugee campaign groups and political parties. 

Worcester City Council leader Cllr Lynn Denham said after seeing the riots she feared that behaviour might make its way to Worcester.

“There are people who don’t want us to be a peaceful loving city, they do want to cause division, one asks why and what they will get out of it. 

“It won’t be for the benefit of Worcester. 

“I thank Worcester for being wonderful, for caring and for being kind, let’s keep Worcester peaceful and celebrate exactly who we are- looking out for each other.”

Towards the end of the protest, everyone in attendance joined in a minute of silence to remember all those who have been impacted by racism. 

And the protest ended with a drummer playing and leading a shout declaring ‘Worcester Welcomes Refugees.’