Open letter from Council Leader about anti-immigration march

Open letter from Council Leader about anti-immigration march

Liverpool City Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, has addressed the community in an open letter as an anti-immigration march is scheduled to take place on County Road. He emphasizes Liverpool’s identity as a city founded on diversity, unity, and kindness, highlighting its strong tradition of welcoming people from varied backgrounds who have contributed to the city’s unique cultural landscape.

Reflecting on the recent events in Southampton, Belfast, and Glasgow, Cllr Robinson acknowledges the fear and anxiety these incidents have caused among residents, visitors, and workers in Liverpool. He makes it clear that hatred, racism, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry have no place in the city. While affirming the importance of respecting peaceful democratic expression, he notes that the upcoming march has raised considerable concern among local communities, recalling the violent disorders from August 2024, which included the arson attack on Spellow library and days of fear when residents stayed indoors.

Cllr Robinson shares the sentiments of many who have expressed a desire for the march not to proceed, describing it as a stark and painful reminder of distressing times in the area’s history. However, he explains that local authorities do not possess the power to prohibit such demonstrations, a decision that rests solely with the Home Office. Merseyside Police, tasked with maintaining order during the event, are working closely with council members to ensure public safety. Both he and local Members of Parliament have formally requested the Home Office to grant more authority to prevent these hate-driven protests in the future.

In addition to addressing racial intolerance, Robinson highlights concerns about the rising discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community. He proudly mentions Liverpool’s upcoming Pride celebration in July, one of the nation’s largest and most inclusive events, welcoming people from all backgrounds regardless of sexual orientation. He reassures the city’s residents that the council remains committed to working alongside police and community groups to keep Liverpool a city defined by hope and acceptance, encouraging everyone to stand united against hate, seek accurate information, and support initiatives like the #ThisIsLiverpool campaign to foster belonging for all

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