Islington witnessed a powerful display of community unity and anti-fascist resolve as hundreds gathered to oppose a far-right demonstration targeting a hotel housing refugees.

On a recent Saturday, approximately 700 anti-racism activists significantly outnumbered around 150 far-right provocateurs outside the Thistle Barbican Hotel in North London. This decisive show of force underscored the community’s unwavering commitment to solidarity and peace.

The targeted hotel, currently accommodating refugees, became a focal point for the far-right’s divisive agenda. Their attempts aimed to incite fear and animosity, baselessly claiming refugees and migrants posed threats to women and children, a narrative swiftly rejected by the local populace.

Amidst the chants and banners, residents of the hotel appeared at windows, waving and flashing peace signs, a poignant symbol of gratitude and defiance. Mohammed Kozbar from Finsbury Park Mosque passionately declared, “We are all united against fascism. There is no place in Islington for these people,” highlighting recent racist incidents near the mosque.

Kozbar further emphasized the intersectionality of their struggle, asserting, “We will stay supporting Palestine—you racists will not intimidate us. Who will be next? We must not allow them to attack us now, because a different community will be next.” This underscored the need for continuous vigilance against all forms of hatred.

Mike, an NEU union representative from City and Islington sixth form centre, articulated the educational sector’s stance: “We have had students from refugee backgrounds. No matter where they come from, we try to create a culture of love and respect.” He stressed the importance of numerical superiority in countering the far-right’s “culture of fear and hatred.”

The demonstration also served as a platform for broader political commentary, with some attendees expressing disillusionment with mainstream political figures. A visitor from the United States noted similar struggles abroad, expressing solace in Britain’s strong counter-protest presence against anti-migrant sentiments.

Jeremy Corbyn, whose constituency borders Islington, actively encouraged participation in the Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) counter-demonstration, advocating for communal unity against all forms of hate, including antisemitism and Islamophobia. Organizers highlighted extensive preparatory activities, including leafleting sessions where women countered fear-mongering narratives about refugees.

While this protest, mirroring a recent one in Epping, Essex, marked a setback for far-right aspirations, their renewed confidence to organize even in diverse areas like Islington signifies an emboldened movement. Sustained organizing by anti-racism advocates remains crucial to effectively push back against their persistent efforts.