Glasgow's St. Andrew's Day Anti-Racism March: A Powerful Display of Unity Against Hate

This year's St Andrew's Day will see Glasgow's streets filled not only with festive cheer but also a powerful display of unity against hate. The annual St Andrew's Day Anti-Racism and Anti-Fascism march, organised by the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC), is set to take place this Saturday, November 30th, commencing at 11am from Glasgow Green. This significant event serves as a poignant reminder of Scotland's enduring commitment to inclusivity and its unwavering opposition to far-right ideologies.

The march, themed “Resilient and Rising,” reflects the ongoing struggles of anti-racist movements in Scotland and their enduring strength. The STUC, representing over 500,000 members, expects around 500 participants this year, a testament to the enduring importance of this annual demonstration.

The March Route and Rally

The march will follow a defined route, starting at Glasgow Green and making its way through the city's heart. The procession will pass through Saltmarket, High Street, Ingram Street, South Frederick Street, George Square, St Vincent Place, St Vincent Street, West Campbell Street, Bath Street, and finally concluding at Pitt Street. A rally is scheduled for 12pm in Adelaide Place, where speakers will address the gathered crowd.

Notable Speakers

This year's impressive lineup of speakers includes prominent figures in the fight against racism and fascism in Scotland. Hardial Singh Bhari, co-founder of the Scottish Asian Action Committee, will be sharing his insights, alongside anti-racism campaigner Zamard Zahid and STUC general secretary Roz Foyer. These powerful voices will undoubtedly contribute to the event's impact and message.

The Significance of the March

Roz Foyer, STUC general secretary, emphasized the critical importance of the march, stating, “Our annual St Andrew’s Day anti-racism, anti-fascism march matters now more than ever.” She highlighted the historical context of the march, originating almost four decades ago in response to the National Front attempting to appropriate St Andrew’s Day for their racist ideology. The march stands as a powerful testament to the collective action of working people who united against such toxic ideologies.

The march's significance transcends a single day; it's a statement against complacency. Foyer's words underscore the ongoing need to actively combat racism and fascism, emphasizing that Scotland is not immune to these pervasive issues. The STUC's call to action is clear: “This is your fight as well as ours,” urging unity and collective action to drive hatred and division out of Scotland.

A Celebration Beyond Protest

While the march is a protest against hate, it's also a celebration of Scottish culture and unity. This year's march, coinciding with the Reform UK Scottish conference in Perth, highlights the contrast between those who seek to divide and those who strive for inclusivity. The “Resilient and Rising” theme encapsulates the spirit of the march, emphasizing the ongoing struggle and the unwavering determination to create a more just and equitable Scotland.

The march isn't merely a demonstration; it's a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of individuals and organizations to combat injustice. The powerful message delivered by the march will resonate far beyond Glasgow's city center, acting as a beacon of hope for a Scotland that is genuinely inclusive and free from the poison of racism and fascism. The collective action of the march participants sends a strong message of solidarity against hate and intolerance. This event marks a significant step towards building a more equitable future, where everyone feels welcome and valued.

The annual event underscores Scotland's commitment to diversity and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need to actively challenge all forms of prejudice.

A United Front Against Hate: The Legacy of the March

The St. Andrew's Day march, a testament to the enduring power of collective action, continues to inspire and galvanize communities across Scotland. It is a powerful symbol of resistance against far-right ideologies, ensuring Scotland remains a beacon of inclusivity and tolerance. The legacy of this march will continue to shape the future of Scotland, ensuring a future where diversity is celebrated, and hate has no place.

This significant event reflects the unwavering commitment of the Scottish people to combatting all forms of prejudice and fostering an inclusive society that welcomes all individuals, regardless of their background. The success of this annual demonstration depends on the continued participation and support from individuals and organisations across Scotland, working together to create a better future for generations to come. The ongoing commitment to this cause remains pivotal in the fight against intolerance and the advancement of a more just and equitable society.