THIS coming Saturday it is to be hoped that huge numbers from all over Scotland will rally to march for independence through Arbroath. I have hardly missed any marches. Since moving from Better Together to independence for Scotland in 2014 I have marched through wind, rain and sun – Oban and a soaking to the skin was very memorable! However, I have a wish, and it may go against what many marchers agree with. I cannot take part in the chant of “Tories, Tories Tories – out out out.” It demeans what is trying to be achieved.
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Is it totally unbelievable that Tory voters might also want independence? Is it worth raising voices against Tories who want to vote for independence? Is it worth alienating any section of Scottish community, therefore jeopardising that winning vote? I don’t think so. I recognise that in Scotland people can have diverse political opinions but might still want a common goal. Surely that is true democracy, and as a progressive country must respect others’ views. At early marches I well remember a small but growing group who marched under the banner "Tories for Independence". I haven’t seen them for a long, long time. Intimidated? Perhaps. Alienated? Definitely. Let's get them back marching with us.
I appeal – most strongly to those who chant and those who respond to the chant – please stop. In hopefully a year’s time we will go for another referendum and won't want to be dead in the water a second time. Please stop alienating Tory support – let’s show what an inclusive people we are. And if there are readers out there who agree with me, please write in support of what I suggest.
Frieda Burns
Stonehaven
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