A WEEKEND March for Independence could be a landmark for the Yes movement, organisers claim.
Organisers All Under One Banner have arranged six public processions since 2014 to show continuing support for constitutional change.
However, they say the result of the EU referendum has changed the tone of political discourse, making Saturday’s event different to any other.
Neil MacKay of All Under One Banner told The National the march, which will take place in Glasgow, is set to include a broader spectrum of the public than ever before.
He said: “It hasn’t felt like this before. People are coming from all over Scotland.
“Since the EU vote there has been a renewed desire for independence. We have always had a core of activists, getting at least 500 people each time. This time we’ll have at least 1,500, but it could go as high as 3,000.
“We are seeing people commenting online, saying they voted No and now that has changed. It seems to be a wider selection of people, with a lot more of the Asian community and a lot of English people.
“They want to be part of it and to do something physical to show their support. The debate on independence hasn’t stopped since 2013 but a lot more people now want to be seen to be supporting independence.”
The march will start from the Botanic Gardens in the West End of the city at 10am, setting off half an hour later and ending in George Square at noon.
Those with mobility issues who are unable to complete the march are invited to meet participants at the central landmark, where a range of groups will be represented.
MacKay said the marches keep the Yes movement “in the hands of the people” and those taking part are encouraged to carry banners declaring their reasons for supporting independence.
He said: “We don’t want independence for its own sake, we want it for the right reasons and we want people to show why they back independence, whether that be anti-fracking, anti-Trident, anti-austerity or anything else.
“This is about bridging the gap between socialism and nationalism. It’s a good opportunity to wave your slogan and show your allegiance to independence.”
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