By Charlotte Ndpuechi.
Two demonstrations took place in Portswood, Southampton, on Friday evening (22/8/25). The first saw right-wing protesters target a hotel reportedly housing asylum seekers. The second was a counter-protest organised by Southampton Stand Up to Racism.
The hotel has recently erected a large metal fence in an attempt to protect residents, after protesters last week reportedly climbed onto the roof and banged on windows. A heavy police presence surrounded the building throughout the evening.
Protesters chanted slogans including “Stop the boats,” “You can’t trust a lefty with your kids,” and “IDF, IDF.” The group appeared to have adopted an affiliation with Jewish people, which seems to be a new direction for such groups. Many wore T-shirts with Southampton Patriots, apparently the name of a newly formed group in the city. The group also has a GoFundMe page, appealing for donations to buy flags in support of their “movement.”
Such demonstrations have now become a regular occurrence, with refugees being scapegoated for a range of social problems—particularly allegations of abuse against women and girls. Organisers had even requested permission to fly a drone over the street, which many felt was intended to intimidate either the hotel residents or counter-protesters.
The counter-demonstration drew strong numbers. Protesters held banners reading Homes for All, Refugees Welcome, and Stand Up to Racism. They lined the pavement opposite the hotel in solidarity.
It was shocking to witness the hate and aggression on the faces of those surrounding the hotel. Alongside the usual crowd of large, red-faced men—many of whom appeared to have been drinking heavily—there were also a surprising number of women and children wrapped in St George’s Cross flags.
At one point, several children got together with a piece of cardboard and pens, apparently encouraged to make their own placard. To the crowd’s surprise, they returned with a sign reading “We love cats,” perhaps a small glimmer of hope that the next generation has not yet been consumed by the poison of hatred.
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