An Open Letter from Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council 

An Open Letter from Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council 

Liverpool City Council has issued a statement regarding the upcoming UKIP march planned for Saturday, 21 March 2026. The council emphasizes its commitment to combating racism and promoting inclusivity in the city, especially during this significant time for Liverpool.

On 17 March, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet formally approved a comprehensive city-wide Anti-Racism Strategy developed in partnership with local organisations spanning health, education, police, and community sectors. This strategy marks an important milestone for Liverpool, reflecting the city’s long-standing values of diversity, resilience, and solidarity. It highlights the city’s identity as a place shaped by people from around the world, which contributes to its vibrant culture and economy.

Despite Liverpool’s proud diversity, the council acknowledges that racism—whether obvious or subtle, personal or systemic—remains a damaging presence within communities. The new strategy is designed as a collective pledge to foster a city where everyone feels they belong, where institutions actively oppose racism, and where the racial and ethnic diversity of residents is embraced as a source of strength. Liverpool City Council itself has committed to becoming an actively anti-racist organisation. Last November, it approved its own internal anti-racism action plan aimed at delivering tangible improvements for both staff and citizens.

The council finds it deeply concerning that UKIP’s planned march coincides directly with the endorsement of this anti-racism strategy. While respecting freedom of speech, the council stresses it will never tolerate efforts intended to intimidate or divide communities. Liverpool’s history is firmly rooted in opposition to racism, extremism, and hate, and it will continue to uphold those principles. Although the council and police do not have the authority to prevent the march—that power lies solely with the Home Office—Merseyside Police are responsible for ensuring safety during the event, and the council is collaborating closely with them to manage public security.

In these moments, the council calls for unity, urging all residents to support the “This is Liverpool” anti-racism campaign. This initiative aims to send a powerful, shared message that Liverpool stands united against racism. The city belongs to everyone, and by working together, it can become a fairer, safer, and more inclusive place for all. As council leader Liam Robinson concludes: “This is Liverpool. A city of hope, not hate.”

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