Greater Manchester Groups Unite for Anti-Racism March

Anti-racism campaigners are expecting a good response to their unity call urging people from across Greater Manchester to join a march and rally celebrating hope and peace.

Organised by Stand Up to Racism and supported by a growing number of trade unions, charities, faith and community groups, the march will start at All Saints' Park on Oxford Road before making its way to Albert Square.

The event outside the Town Hall will feature music and dancing in a joyful celebration of what makes Greater Manchester special.

Alison Campbell, publicity officer of Greater Manchester Stand Up to Racism, said: “We want to get people talking, laughing, recognising our shared humanity and generally enjoying a family friendly day of hope."

Protests outside refugee hotels and marches organised by the far right have brought division to some communities in Greater Manchester over the last two years.

But as Alison says: "You heal division with community and unity. You fight hate with hope. That is what we want to do with this event.”

Over 20 similar Unity demonstrations are being planned across the country. So far, more than 20 groups are supporting the Manchester Unity event, but the number is increasing by the day.

Alison adds: "We are stronger together. We are proud of our differences.

"We don’t even need to make an argument because, right now, the far right is making the argument for us."

The organisers want the event to be an “exciting, vibrant celebration” of community and unity against the far right.

Nahella Ashraf, Chair of Greater Manchester Stand Up to Racism, has campaigned against racism and Islamophobia for many years.

"We campaign against Tommy Robinson, Britain First and other far right groups. We also campaign against government policy such as Labour’s stance on immigration,” she said.

The face of racism has changed, Nahella says, so Stand Up to Racism doesn’t just work at street level but also against the propaganda of politicians like Nigel Farage.

Stand Up to Racism has a history of “repelling the far right,” including the British National Party and Nick Griffin.

“If we don’t do anything now, the future looks bleak,” Nahella adds.

“The far right has been growing in confidence. You have Tommy Robinson's followers on the streets. You have Farage in Parliament.

“If we are organised, we can push the racists back.”

Unity March and Rally

11am, Saturday 26th September

Assemble at: All Saints' Park,

Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9NQ