Column: What anti-racism looked like in Wales’ first City of Sanctuary

Sioned Williams MS writes about the Stand Up To Racism Rally in Swansea

A photograph of people at the Stand Up To Racism rally in Swansea. In the centre of the picture is a cardboard sign that says “Ych-a-fi Racism” (yuck, racism)

This article was published in the South Wales Evening Post on Thursday 15 August 2024.

 

What anti-racism looks like in Wales’ City of Sanctuary

Sioned Williams MS writes about what happened when the far right threatened to turn up in Swansea, a City of Sanctuary

If you’ve been following the news over the last few weeks, you can’t have failed to notice the violent scenes in towns and cities in England and Northern Ireland, with police under attack, black and brown people targeted, shops looted and even a library burned down. And, indeed, they’ve been widely reported as ‘UK riots’ but with two noticeable exceptions – there haven’t been any riots in Scotland or Wales.

In Wales, this isn’t due to lack of threat of violence – only this weekend the police were having to warn businesses about ‘demonstrations’ planned across towns and cities, and just last week the first person from Wales was convicted for their part in inciting the riots.

But it has not, as yet, happened.

Why? Is Wales somehow immune to the types of racist views and actions expressed by the groups behind the violence?

Sadly not. But I’m glad to see communities here come together to send a message to these thugs, to take a stand against the racist speech and actions of those who riot, and to say very clearly that it’s this behaviour that’s not welcome in Wales. So we must remain vigilant and do everything possible to ensure the safety of all our citizens.

I’m reminded of the famous quote by the African-American political activist, professor, and author Angela Davis:

“In a racist society, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be anti-racist.”

That’s what happened in Swansea last weekend. Hundreds gathered in Castle Square to take a stand against racism. Organised by Stand Up To Racism Swansea, hundreds voiced their calls for unity in the face of the threats to the peaceful, inclusive and welcoming nature of our communities.

It was particularly poignant that this should take part in Swansea, which was Wales’ first city to be declared a City of Sanctuary, and only the second in the UK.

I’d like to thank everyone who took part in this peaceful protest, including local Plaid Cymru members.

I believe that the recent racist riots are partly the result of decades of allowing racism and hatred to develop openly online, in the press and by some politicians. Therefore we all have a duty to take responsibility and come together to show that there is no place for racism in our communities.

Well done Swansea for sending such a powerful message!

This starts with you

We can make Wales a safer, better place to live. Sign up today and show your support.

Campaigns