TODAY, a resounding call for Scottish independence will echo through the historic streets of Edinburgh. A diverse tapestry of people from all walks of life will come together, united by the fervent belief that marching is not just an act of physical movement, but a powerful declaration of their aspirations and demands.

This march, set against the backdrop of the ongoing debate over Scotland’s place within the United Kingdom and its aspirations to re-enter the European Union, symbolises more than just a political stance. It embodies the absolute importance of marching as a means to gain visibility, foster unity, and achieve monumental goals.

Throughout history, marches have played an integral role in shaping the destiny of nations. From civil rights movements to suffragette protests, these gatherings have acted as a driving force for change.

Scotland’s quest for independence is no exception. Just as marches have been pivotal in asserting the rights and identities of oppressed groups, the Scottish independence movement uses this tradition to reassert its unique cultural identity and voice its demands for self-governance.

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Marching is an unspoken language of solidarity. The sea of determined faces, all marching in unison towards a shared goal, sends a powerful message to the world: “We stand together.”

For the Scottish independence movement, this unity is essential. By converging on the streets of Edinburgh, people from different backgrounds, ages, and beliefs communicate their collective conviction that Scotland’s future should be determined by its own people. In a world where attention is a limited resource, marching provides a unique opportunity to command notice.

The sheer size and determination of a march can’t be ignored, capturing the attention of the media, politicians, and citizens alike. Today is a stage upon which Scotland’s desire for independence takes centre spotlight, amplifying its voice both domestically and internationally.

Central to the march’s significance is the desire for Scotland to rejoin the European Union. This aspiration resonates deeply with those who believe that being part of the EU not only holds economic benefits but also aligns with Scotland’s commitment to open borders, diverse cultures, and international co-operation.

The march symbolises Scotland’s intent to re-engage with the world and emphasises its eagerness to once again become a contributing member of the European family.

The importance of a peaceful march cannot be overstated.

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By marching in unity and demonstrating resolve, participants reinforce the message that their demand for independence is not rooted in aggression or hostility but in a shared vision of a better future. The world witnesses a nation striving for change through democratic means, upholding the principles of dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

Edinburgh will today see a procession that speaks to the very heart of the Scottish independence movement.

From the cobblestoned streets to the corridors of power, the march declares that the absolute importance of marching lies in its ability to elevate voices, unite diverse perspectives, and illuminate the path toward a sovereign Scotland – one that stands tall on the global stage, forging its own destiny and embracing the possibility of re-entry into the European Union.

Kevin Walker

via email

IT is hard for Scotland to show the world that most of us want to govern our own country because nearly all newspapers are owned by Unionists and play down any mention of the benefits of independence; with television outlets biased and pro-Union.

Even abroad, Scottish ministers and parliamentarians are not allowed to discuss our desire for self-government. They are forced to have UK Foreign Office officials with them who actively interrupt any mention of independence.

However, demonstrations show the world that Scotland wants its freedom and the pressure on the UK Government will become overwhelming, as it did with so many other countries held in colonial status. So aged though I am, I am going to join every Edinburgh march and demo with my Saltire flag. I may not go the distance but I will have been there. Join me. We will show the world that Scotland wants independence. Westminster will be unable to ignore us.

Elizabeth Scott

Edinburgh

AS much as I respect the views of Lesley Riddoch, I’m afraid she’s got it wrong about today’s independence march and rally.

We’ve all heard the First Minister claim he would back AUOB marches and attend as a speaker – only for him to ignore such commitments – so why should non-SNP, or even SNP members who don’t support the EU take part in today’s farce?

I believe around one-third of independence supporters don’t want to be in the EU – and they are being excluded from this march, as no doubt the SNP will claim it's backing for their poor EU policy (poor as in unworkable without having our own currency).

There is nothing more likely to chase me away from an independence rally than seeing politicians talking about indy but doing nothing to get us closer to it.

The SNP could withdraw all their MPs now and cause a constitutional crisis but yet again it’s all words no action. And to expect anyone to listen to Lorna Slater is a step too far – she is the Union’s most successful politician.

So excuse me, but I won’t be in Edinburgh for a party-political march, I’ll save that for a genuine grassroots march such as those organised by AUOB, and maybe sometime the First Minister can live up to his promises and actually attend one of these marches!

Alex Beckett

Paisley