HUNDREDS of people congregated in Swansea city centre on Sunday (Aug 11) to participate in a rally against racism, following concerns that far-right groups were planning a demonstration in the area. The event, held in Castle Square, was organised by Stand Up to Racism Swansea, and saw a diverse array of speakers who called for unity and action against the rising threat of extremism. Despite initial fears, no far-right protest materialised.
The rally was followed by a spirited march, with some of the demonstrators making their way through Oxford Street and The Kingsway, briefly halting traffic. The police presence was significant but subdued, with mounted officers among those deployed to maintain order.
One of the key speakers at the rally was Dr Gwyn Williams of Plaid Cymru. Addressing the crowd, he said: “It is heartening to see such a strong turnout, with everyone standing together. Swansea is a welcoming and peaceful city, where everyone is embraced—everyone except the far-right. They were too intimidated to show up, and let’s ensure it stays that way.
“I witness daily in my work the invaluable contributions of immigrants—without them, we would struggle. Wales needs more immigrants and the skills they bring to flourish. We must unite to reject the far-right. The Welsh community is all of us.”
Jamie Jenkins, founder of LGBTQIA+ support organisation Swansea Scene, also spoke at the event. He remarked, “This rally sends a clear message—the Swansea community is inclusive and welcoming. This is our identity. The far-right has no place here.”
The Swansea rally is one of several anti-racism events held across the UK in the past week, following a wave of violence that erupted in the aftermath of a knife attack in Southport. The attack resulted in the deaths of three young girls and left ten others seriously injured. A 17-year-old boy from Cardiff, Axel Rudakubana, has been charged with three counts of murder and ten counts of attempted murder in connection with the incident. The violence that followed the attack was fuelled by misinformation spread online, falsely claiming that the suspect had arrived in the UK via a small boat.
Cities such as Plymouth, Belfast, and Liverpool were plunged into chaos as far-right groups incited violent unrest. Police were attacked, shops looted, and buildings—including a library—set ablaze. The authorities have responded swiftly, with the National Police Chiefs’ Council reporting that over 770 people have been arrested, and 349 have already been charged.
The peaceful and resolute demonstration in Swansea stands in stark contrast to the violent scenes witnessed elsewhere, highlighting the city’s commitment to inclusivity and unity in the face of division.
