THE Scottish Trades Union Congress has organised a “rally against racism” to take place on Saturday November 25.
The annual St Andrew’s Day march and rally in Glasgow will take place in solidarity with those impacted by racism and racial discrimination throughout Scotland.
In response to reports of fascist groups assembling throughout the country, the theme of this year’s rally is “From Erskine to Elgin: The far-right is not welcome.”
Here’s all you need to know.
When and where is the rally?
The STUC’s Twitter says people should gather at Glasgow Green around 10.30 for the beginning of the march before it heads off around 11am.
A rally will then take place at the Technology and Innovation Centre at Strathclyde University.
Who will be there?
The First Minister will be among those to address the rally and has already said that the STUC’s “unwavering solidarity with marginalised communities” inspired him to get involved with politics.
He said: “When Islamophobia was prevalent in Scotland in the early 2000s – the trade union movement’s unwavering solidarity with marginalised communities inspired me to become involved in politics.
“I will be incredibly proud to speak at the St Andrew’s Day rally on Saturday to repay some of the love and support the STUC offered me when I needed it most.”
What else has been said?
The STUC’s general secretary Roz Foyer (below) said the rally would be “sending a clear message to those who spread their hatred and bile that they will not divide us”.
“Now more than ever, the trade union movement stands solidly beside those facing discrimination and persecution.
“From Erskine to Elgin, the length and breadth of Scotland, we will root out racism from our communities and hold to account those who spread it.
“We are pleased the First Minister will lead our rally. We look forward to working with him and his government as we build a tolerant, inclusive, welcoming nation that has a zero-tolerance approach to racism and fascism.”
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