We Are Bristol- Statement opposing the English Defence League march in Bristol

bristol | community | press release

Wednesday May 09, 2012 16:21

by POUM

southwestuaf at gmail dot com

WE ARE BRISTOL

Supported by Unite Against Fascism.

Celebrating diversity - resisting racism and fascism.

The English Defence League (EDL) has announced its intention to hold a March and Rally here in Bristol on July 14th.

The EDL is a violent, racist group riddled with fascists, dedicated to promoting hatred and intolerance in society. We agree that Islamophobia - bigotry against Muslims - is as unacceptable as any other form of racism. The EDL aims to create divisions in society by using diversity as a cause for hatred rather than celebration. The EDL is trying to create a street movement to terrorise ethnic minority communities and attack socialist and Trade Union organisations

They have staged many provocative demonstrations across the UK over the past three years. Whenever the EDL march they bring disruption and violence. We do not want that here in Bristol.

The route they are planning is through the city centre and coincides with Bristol Pride – We are: Proud - , itself a celebration of diversity. Pride is a celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. It is organised by the LGBT community for the people of the South West. There is no place for the EDL here in Bristol's multi-cultural, multi-racial and multi-faith community.

WE ARE BRISTOL is a broad-based network of local community groups, political organisations and Trade Unionists and, supported by Unite Against Fascism, will organise a counter demonstration to keep the EDL out of our city. We urge all decent people of this community - irrespective of colour, faith or beliefs to join us in opposing the EDL. They want to create hatred and division - Let's Unite to stop them.

Please add your name to the growing list of supporters.

WE ARE BRISTOL can offer speakers and publicity for your union branch, community group, church or mosque.

For more information or to send messages of support please contact southwestuaf@gmail.com