Thousands protest racism in Belfast after anti-immigrant riots

Thousands of people filled Belfast's city center on Saturday to protest racism and condemn the recent wave of anti-immigrant riots that have gripped Northern Ireland. The demonstration served as a direct response to violent unrest, including the burning of cars and buildings, which erupted following a brutal stabbing incident earlier in the week.

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Hate is the only threat on our streets!

The unrest, fueled by the far-right, has instilled fear among locals who no longer recognize their city as a peaceful place. Videos circulating online showed disturbing acts of violence, including an attempted throat-slitting of a Sudanese asylum seeker, who is now in critical condition. The suspect in the stabbing is also a Sudanese asylum seeker.

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Refugees welcome!

Organizers, such as United Against Racism, estimated the crowd size to be between 3,000 and 20,000 people. Demonstrators chanted slogans like "Hate is the only threat on our streets!" and "Refugees welcome!" Political parties and trade unions also showed solidarity. Belfast Mayor Róis-Máire Donnelly addressed the crowd, stating that a small minority should not be allowed to spread fear and hate. She shared that she had received death threats this week but affirmed her commitment to representing a resilient, compassionate, and welcoming Belfast, highlighting the city's strength through diversity.

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The riots do not speak for Belfast!

Among the attendees were newlyweds Matthew Richardson and Cara Bell, who chose to celebrate their anniversary by joining the protest. "We just wanted to come here and show our support," Richardson told the Belfast Telegraph, emphasizing that while he is technically an immigrant from Australia, he doesn't feel perceived as one. The event saw a diverse range of participants, including families with children, and was monitored by police who removed the leader of the far-right National Front party for taking photos of attendees. The protest aimed to reclaim the narrative of Belfast, asserting that the riots do not represent the city's true character.

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You are the Belfast that I represent: resilient, compassionate, and welcoming. Our city is stronger because of its diversity.