Over the weekend, masked groups of vigilantes in balaclavas descended upon Dover and Portsmouth, exhibiting intimidating and racially charged behavior. These groups disrupted critical infrastructure, causing significant disturbances to roads, boats, and public transport. Several police officers sustained injuries, and some vehicles were reported damaged. Notably, these demonstrations were conducted without prior approval from authorities. Surprisingly, no arrests were made during these events.
If the situation had involved a masked pro-Palestinian demonstration or an unauthorized environmental protest that impeded traffic and intimidated citizens, it is likely there would have been numerous arrests. This discrepancy highlights what appears to be a case of “two-tier policing,” where law enforcement seems to apply stricter measures against pro-Palestine and climate activists, while being lenient towards anti-immigrant demonstrations.
In light of this, it is crucial to consider designating extremist racist groups like the Patriot Platform as “terrorist” organizations. At the very least, the government and police should leverage their existing powers to take decisive action against individuals involved in fostering hatred, particularly given that such actions have already incited racially motivated violence in various regions of the UK.
Zoe Williams aptly critiques the contradictions within the hard right’s assertion of “protecting our women.” Last year, I was among a group of women protesting against Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom march when we were assaulted by his supporters, resulting in a punch to my face. I am scheduled to testify in the ensuing court case.
The hypocrisy is glaring. A movement that frames migrants and refugees as threats to women appears to overlook acts of intimidation and violence against women who oppose its agenda.
Moreover, I find it troubling that I am facing charges under the Terrorism Act for peacefully holding a placard in Trafalgar Square that read: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.” Meanwhile, masked far-right demonstrators can march through our streets, intimidating refugees, migrants, and Muslims, while peaceful activists face severe legal consequences. This stark contrast certainly warrants a closer examination of “two-tier justice.”
It is essential to address the issue of racism by advocating for an end to over 15 years of austerity measures, which must translate into real actions, including increased investment in public services and infrastructure, as well as ensuring wages keep pace with inflation.
Additionally, the far-right rallies in Dover and Portsmouth represent an alarming effort to establish a fascist street presence, fueled by rhetoric from groups like Reform UK and Restore Britain. As we near the 90th anniversary of the Cable Street battle, the lesson is clear: they must not succeed.
In response to the unsettling imagery of masked individuals in Dover, I chose to donate to the refugee charity Care4Calais.
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