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“Unite the Kingdom”: Massive March Through London
On 13 September 2025, London saw one of the largest far-right demonstrations in recent UK history: the “Unite the Kingdom” march, organised by Tommy Robinson (Stephen Yaxley-Lennon). The rally was framed by its organisers as a stand for free speech, British heritage, and opposition to immigration policies which they say have neglected or harmed “the British public.”
Size and Scope
• Estimated attendance: Police and independent estimates put the number of attendees at around 110,000 people. Some sources suggest the figure might have reached up to 150,000.
• Counter-protesters: A smaller but significant counter-protest, organised by Stand Up to Racism, numbered about 5,000 people.
• Police deployment: More than 1,600 officers were deployed to manage the event and to keep the two protests apart. Some came from other forces.
Route, Atmosphere & Visuals
• The march started from multiple gathering points, notably Waterloo Bridge and Lambeth Bridge, then converged toward Whitehall and areas close to Parliament.
• The crowd stretched from Big Ben, across the River Thames and beyond Waterloo Train Station—over about three-quarters of a mile (roughly one kilometre) in places.
• Many of those present carried symbols: Union Jack flags, St George’s Cross (England’s flag), some Israeli flags; others wore hats or slogans referencing immigration. Chanting was reported—some directed at the government, particularly at Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Tensions, Confrontations & Police Action
While much of the demonstration proceeded without major incident, several confrontations between marchers and the police were reported:
• Some protesters attempted to breach cordons or enter so-called “sterile areas” (buffer zones) meant to keep the Unite the Kingdom march separate from counter-protesters.
• Objects like bottles, flares, and possibly other projectiles were thrown. Some officers sustained injuries; reports vary but at least 26 officers were injured, four of them seriously.
• Arrests: police confirmed 25 people were arrested for offences including violent disorder, assault, and criminal damage.
Significance & Reactions
• Many commentators and political figures have pointed out that this march reflects growing public anxieties about immigration and national identity. The size of the gathering surprised some, including police, who said that parts of Whitehall were so packed that there was no space for all protesters where they had been expected to gather.
• Critics argued that the event was not just about free speech, but included xenophobic, anti-immigrant, and extremist rhetoric. The presence of nationalist symbols, chants against immigrants, and criticism of asylum seekers drew condemnation from anti-racism groups.
• Supporters said the march was a demonstration of political awakening, of voicing concerns they believe are neglected in mainstream discourse. Some said they felt that “homeless British people” were being sidelined while migrants were given more protection or benefits.
Conclusion
The “Unite the Kingdom” march stands out for its sheer size, the speed with which it mobilised, and the visible signs of nationalistic and anti-immigration sentiment. Whether this reflects a durable shift in UK public opinion, or a temporary outburst catalysed by current events, remains to be seen. But many agree its scale has marked a new moment in the country’s political and social landscape.
Attached is a news article regarding the march through London shouting Tommy Robinson
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwydezxl0xlo.amp
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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