March 20 is the UN World Against Racism day. There is usually a big event happening in central London but this year it wasn’t possible to go ahead. Instead people have gathered locally in small groups.

In our borough, a group of about 60 people gathered socially distanced in Wanstead flats to unite against racism.

There were councillors and people from the Labour Party, Stand Up to Racism Newham, Newham Muslim Safety Forum, BLM and Socialist Workers Party. A group of cyclists cycled from Stratford with placards.

At 1 pm, we took the knee. During the day, online events also took place.

Rob Ferguson, convenor of Newham Stand Up To Racism said:

“This year, the marking of UN anti-racism day as an international day of protest, initiated in 2014 by Stand Up To Racism and sister anti-racist movements in other countries, is hugely significant. Every year, we have marked the day in Newham, mobilising for the annual march in London.

“This year’s nationwide events were sponsored by Stand Up To Racism and the Trades Union Congress and supported by Labour MPs, councillors and councils. Protests like that in Newham were held across the country. An online rally was joined by over 1,000, with speakers from across the world.

“We now face a huge challenge. The far right hope to build out of the pandemic and looming economic crisis. The government is fuelling racist and anti-migrant sentiment. Internationally, the far right fascist organisations are mobilising.

“However, Newham and the UK has a proud history of mobilising against racism and throwing back the far right. This year we have seen the shining example of the Black Lives Matter Movement. A mass united anti-racist movement will be key to face any future threat.”

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