Anti-fascists show the people of Leeds and Yorkshire reject the fascist politics of the BNP

Six hundred people attended the Unite Against Fascism regional rally and march in Leeds on Saturday June 13.

The event demonstrated the breadth of opposition to the breakthrough by the BNP in the Euro elections. The day also saw an impressive contingent of trade unionists and young people.

Speakers included trade unionists, local councillors and representatives from the student movement, as well as disability and LGBT campaigns.

All the speakers emphasised that the BNP is not a normal political party - but a fascist party dedicated to trying to create an 'all white Britain' - something which can only be achieved by violence and the destruction of democracy. If we are to succeed in isolating and defeating the BNP it will require a mass campaign which unites all those opposed to the BNP and challenges the racism it attempts to feed on.

At the end of the rally we marched down the Headrow also avoiding a potential conflict with the Orange Order who had booked the space outside the art gallery later in the afternoon.

It was great to see the very positive response we received from passers-by, including some joining the march, as we headed through the city centre towards the BBC studios.

The march ended and dispersed after a short rally outside the BBC. Speakers voiced their opposition to the fascists being given legitimacy and an 'easy ride' by the BBC.

Since the Euro election last week UAF protests in our region have seen hundreds of new people joining the anti fascist movement.

Over the coming weeks and months Leeds UAF will be launching a broad range of initiatives across the city to maximize the opposition to the BNP and celebrate our multicultural society.