Anti-racism rally begins in Belfast after week of anti-immigration disorder
People talking part in a counter protest against the anti-immigration demonstration in Belfast city centre on Friday (PA)
An anti-racism rally is taking place in Belfast, after a week of anti-immigration rioting and disorder in the city.
Organised by the United Against Racism group, the demonstration started at Writerâs Square at midday before participants marched to City Hall.
It comes after around a thousand people gathered in the city for a counter-protest against several hundred anti-immigration demonstrators on Friday evening.
A heavy police presence and barriers were put in place to keep the two groups apart at Belfast City Hall, while Donegall Square North and Wellington Place were closed to traffic for several hours.
People at the anti-immigration protest were seen holding signs with slogans such as âShankill Road says no to illegal immigrationâ and chanting âSend them homeâ.
Trade union banners and signs with anti-racism messages were held aloft at the counter-protest, with chants of âWhen migrant lives are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight backâ and âBelfast is anti-fascistâ.
By early evening, most of the anti-immigration protesters left the area.
Police have planned a significant operation ahead of the planned protests over the weekend.
More than 120 groups are expected to take part in Saturdayâs anti-racism demonstration.
A spokesperson for the United Against Racism group said: âBelfast is an inclusive and diverse city that will not be bowed by racist hate.
âOn Saturday, we are urging all who oppose division to join the march and show that those who peddle racism do not speak for the majority.
âWe want all trade unions, community groups, and all progressive political parties and activist groups to be there.
âViolent racists must not be allowed to control our streets or control the narrative around the problems facing our communities.
âWhen progressives campaign for social change, for investment in public services, or for the rights we all deserve, the far-right are never to be seen.
âIn every corner of this island we need to build an anti-racism movement that challenges hate, but also provides solutions to the issues we must overcome together.
âUnity is the key to overcoming hate, and unity is the key to uplifting all who have been let down by those in power.
âWe must inspire confidence in all who have been intimidated and are fearful in their own homes. Belfast welcomes diversity and we are calling everyone out to showcase it.â
Rioting erupted across the UK due to misinformation online that the suspect in the stabbing of three young girls in Southport last month was a Muslim asylum seeker.
Since last Saturday, businesses, homes and people have been targeted by anti-immigrant protesters across Belfast.
A total of 26 people have been arrested as part of investigations into disorder in recent days, with 22 people charged.
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