'Refugees Welcome Here' in Liverpool
After a recent outbreak of hate in Knowsley, part of metropolitan Liverpool - towards people coming to the UK to seek support and refuge - hundreds of Liverpooldians gathered on the plateau in front of St George's Hall (mid February 2023).
This place has seen many gatherings - starting with workers rights and the Suffragettes in the early 1900s.
This time - showing the stance against racial prejudice and support for those who need to flee their homes because of the unfair, unjust and harmful politics - the asylum seekers, refugees and migrants.
The protest was an answer to the infamous riots outside the Suites Hotel in the Knowsley area of the city on February 10, widely reported on national TV.
We do not know the details but it appears that some groups feel disadvantaged to the presence of foreign people living in a hotel while the folks living around Merseyside struggle to have the ends meet.
In some ways - it is understandable and it has to be addressed in a proper way. The area of Knowsley is for many years described as one of the most deprived in the country.
One may ask - why the stay for refugees has been planted here, in the North West - a dangerously delicate place, known for sensitive issues - and not in some quiet place in Essex. Or Sussex. Or Hampshire. London?
Well, it did happen here by someone's decision, and the thing went mainstream.
The counter manifestation did not gather so much attention, obviously - as it is not in the interest of the corporate media to promote peace.
The demonstration was called "Refugees Welcome Here" with many loud cheers and emotional speeches, one of them by Jeremy Corbyn - who was reportedly withdrawn from Labour Party activities. Nevertheless, he still wants to be the people's voice.
A petition was organised under the banner of Merseyside Anti-Racists Unite, signed by more than 500. What will happen to that?
One may see it as part of the 'Winter of Discontent 2023', as representatives from unions such as the Fire Brigade Union, RMT, Unite the Union and other trade unionists as well as activists from Stand Up to Racism, charity Care4Calais and Polish Migrants Organise for Change took part.
The participants showed their discontent to the current government and its policies.
Leaflets, banners and newspapers were available to support the cause. United by freedom and well-being to all. Well done Liverpool.
Similar demonstrations are announced and expected in the near future in many cities. They will be downplayed by the mainstream media unless a serious riot occurs.
Hopefully there will be no such things, and the grassroot, organic growth of the people, gaining awareness in the politics, will stand strong.
All are welcome on planet Earth
All deserve the best