An anti-racism organisation in Southampton is calling for local residents to join a unity counter demonstration on Friday night (November 7th).
The call by Southampton Stand Up To Racism comes as months of anti-asylum seeker protests in the city are set to continue on Friday.
These have included a march through Portswood and rally outside the hotel in Highfield Lane last Sunday, in response to the train stabbings in Huntindon, after it had been announced that the suspect who had been arrested was British. They have also included a march through the city centre and rally the previous Sunday, with a larger counter-demonstration organised by SSUTR alongside local community and faith groups and trade unions.
The anti-asylum seeker protests are organised by ‘Southampton Patriots’ whose advertisement for the event from 5pm tomorrow says ‘none in, all out’.
SSUTR, who have organised weekly counter-demonstrations, said: “We need a massive turnout this Friday (November 7th) to show that our city stands for solidarity, not fear.
“Last Sunday, the far-right ‘Southampton Patriots’ exploited a horrific incident in Huntingdon to stage a hate protest outside the Highfield House Hotel — targeting asylum seekers.
“Let’s be clear: The Huntingdon attack had no link to terrorism or asylum seekers. The people at Highfield House — fleeing war and persecution — had nothing to do with it.
They added: “We are a city of sanctuary, courage, and compassion.”
SSUTR are inviting local people to join a peaceful counter-protest, assembling at Highfield Church at 4.45pm before marching together to Highfield House Hotel.
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