Organising to defeat the far right

“We live in very dangerous times. For years, there was a consensus right across the political spectrum that we must keep the fascists out of the political mainstream. That clearly is changing,” said Brian Robinson from Stand Against Racism and Inequality (pictured). “The rise of populist leaders like Donald Trump and Boris Johnson, and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil – as well as an increased vote for fascist parties in Germany, Sweden, Italy and many other countries – has emboldened racists. “The EU referendum result has given confidence to right wing leaders and groups,” continued Mr Robinson. “We know that Stephen Yaxley-Lennon [also known as Tommy Robinson] and other right-wing organisations have links with international groups. We cannot be complacent. We have to think how we can marginalise, mobilise and prevent them from making a serious breakthrough.” Get organised “When I was young, I worked as a housing officer on the Beechdale estate in Walsall, which was notorious for racist hate crimes,” said UNISON assistant general secretary, Roger McKenzie. “One night, my boss grabbed me and literally threw me under the table as the National Front was outside. The only way I got home safely was by being smuggled out under a coat. I had family who lived on that estate too and they were routinely attacked. They had letter bombs and dog mess put through their letterboxes and were generally harassed and attacked in the streets. “You can try and defeat racism and...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News 2020 Black Members Conference anti-fascism anti-racism challenging racism Source Type: news