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Several Local trade unions and campaigning groups have got together to organise an anti racism demonstration in Newry following this weeks 'Newry says No' rally.
Titled Newry Against Racism the demonstration will take place on Sun 6 July at 1pm outside Newry Town Hall.
Mark Mac Seáin who's helping organise the demonstration said "On Monday evening an anti-immigration protest-turned-march took place from Newry Town Hall through the town. It was led by prominent regional far-right agitators who, aside from peddling disinformation and racism, derided a group of trade unionists and others counter protesting repeatedly with homophobic abuse and labelled them "the real enemy". "
Organisers believe there is a climate of slowly increasing racist harassment locally which needs to be firmly challenged. The event on Monday occurred in response to a proposal from the local council to add Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to a network of sanctuary cities found across Ireland and Britain. "The level of vitriol being generated online in response to this motion was alarming, but to see a protest headed by hate-mongering far-right figures spreading bile in Newry is horrifying to many across the community."
The groups believe the demonstration is needed "to cut-through the disinformation, the division and the hate of the far-right." and believe that "Those understandably concerned about growing inequality or the housing crisis in Newry, should place the blame at those systemically responsible in Westminster and Stormont, not scapegoat vulnerable communities."
Mac Seáin added "Newry is a welcoming, friendly place and we stand against racism."
This demonstration will take place at Newry Town Hall on Sunday 6th July at 1pm and all are encouraged to attend.
