Trending – Tens of thousands take to the streets to counter racist riots

Trending – Tens of thousands take to the streets to counter racist riots

After a week of far-right rioting across England and Northern Ireland, last night marked a moment of hope and peace for the UK. The country held its breath after reports that more than 100 far-right demonstrations were set to take place in anti-immigration and anti-Muslim protests. But tens of thousands of anti-racism protesters took to the streets, forming protective rings around immigration centres and peacefully marching through the streets. For the few far-right protesters who did turn out, they quickly dispersed and the night of violence the country had prepared for failed to materialise.  

For much of the last 7 days, England and Northern Ireland have seen shameful scenes of violence leaving families afraid to leave their homes after far-right thugs attacked Muslims and non-white people, set buildings and cars on fire, attacked police officers and looted shops. 

It comes a week after three children were murdered. The suspect was born in Wales to Nigerian parents. He has no known links to Islam and is believed to be from a Christian background. Misinformation spread fast online, with reports saying he was an illegal immigrant and a Muslim – leading to riots and attacks on Muslim communities. 

Yesterday’s front pages largely reported on what was expected to be a night of chaos, but Thursday’s front pages celebrate a ‘United Britain’ standing up to thugs and racism. Even traditional right-wing newspapers – many of which have been accused of fanning the flames of division in the UK – celebrated the anti-hate protesters. ‘Standing together’ ‘Power to the people’ and ‘anti-hate marchers face down thugs’ are just a few of the headlines. 

Many across the country will now be hoping the far-right violence has come to a close – several of the papers lead on those who have already been sentenced to prison for their role in the week’s violence, including people getting three-year sentences.