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John, Yesterday, communities across the country responded to threats from the far-right with remarkable solidarity and unity. After a week of rioting and the release of a “hit list” targeting immigration and asylum services by far right groups, people were understandably fearful and concerned. But in the face of this fear, communities stood strong. From free ice-creams handed out outside a Lincoln mosque to streets filled with antifascist supporters in Walthamstow, the response was clear; we stand together against hate. These actions together with other examples of community in places like Southport, Sunderland and Liverpool, are a powerful reminder that there are more people on the side of HOPE than hate. However, we must remain vigilant. There are communities across the UK where the far right have been able to turn out hundreds of people. These communities are hurting and have lost key community assets like their local library or their essential advice centres. The Islamophobia, racism, and targeted violence over the past two weeks has been horrifying, and we expect further protests to follow in the coming weeks. That’s why the work to rebuild our communities and strengthen their resilience must start today.
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