By Will White, News Investigator
Thousands of anti-fascist counter-protesters gathered in Old Market and the surrounding area on Wednesday, August 7th, amid threats of further violence by right-wing rioters following widespread violence up and down the country.
However, counter-protesters vastly outnumbered any right-wing presence, and avoided violent scenes as seen in other cities across the country.
Those present at the scene described the turnout as a ‘victory’ and praised the sense of ‘unity’ among the community. Many held signs reading slogans such as ‘immigration built our nation,’ ‘Bristol welcomes refugees,’ and ‘Keep Bristol Anti-Racist.’
Members of the local community, students, and social activists, began gathering around 19:00 following rumours and claims that right-wing groups would target immigration lawyers in cities across the country, including one on West Street, Bristol.
Many premises in Old Market boarded up their windows as a precaution, and other businesses across the city issued warnings to staff about traveling through the city.
‘It’s been dead [since 15:00],’ said Leila, assistant manager at Rough Trade, a record shop on Nelson Street. ‘There’s a weird feeling in the air.’
The nationwide riots began following disinformation spread online about the identity of the Southport attacker, who murdered three children, and injured ten others, in a knife attack on the 29th July this year.
Far-right groups and commentators used speculation as to the identity of the attacker to incite hatred online, claiming that he was an ‘illegal migrant’ and ‘alleged to be a Muslim.’
Preparations for the expected violence included hundreds of paramedics on site, and police officers granted enhanced stop and search powers.
‘They saw what happened [on Saturday],’ said one protester, who wished to remain anonymous. ‘They didn’t want to come back.’
Afrin, a UWE student who showed up to support, said she was ‘surprised and amazed’ by the turnout.
‘I’m not a native Brit; this is all so close to my heart and that’s why I’m here today,’ she said. ‘I feel so supported. I feel like I belong.’
‘Bristol is for everyone. It’s our Bristol,’ she added.
Chris Roche, Regional Organiser for UNISON South West, was also present at the counter-protest.
According to Roche, there is ‘power in unity and community.’
‘There are hundreds of workers from UNISON out today protesting against the violent far right,’ said Roche. ‘Whether it’s public service workers or communities facing abuse, together we have the power to push back and make this society more equal for everyone.’
‘In Bristol itself and elsewhere people are saying ‘no, we are not going to tolerate racism and fascism,’ he added. ‘We are not going to stand by while the far right attacks our friends, neighbours, families, public service workers, or the most vulnerable people in our communities.’
While courts across the country continue to prosecute those involved in the violence, police forces nationwide remain on high alert for further unrest, such as the subsequent violence in Belfast.
When asked about how they felt about the prospect of further violence, protesters remained optimistic.
‘I think everyone will show up,’ said Lewis. ‘Everywhere will have a counter-protest bigger than a protest.'
According to Afrin, ‘it’s OK to be afraid.’
‘Not everywhere might be as lucky as Bristol,’ she said. ‘But I would like to request for everyone to look out for each other. You don’t need to be violent, but speak up.’
Bristol University offers support to anyone affected by ongoing violence through wellbeing services.
These can be contacted by:
Telephone: +44 (0)117 456 9860 (open 24 hours a day)
Email: wellbeing-access@bristol.ac.uk
Completing the request wellbeing support form.
