Here is a message from Cllr. Bev Craig OBE – Leader of Manchester City Council.
Dear residents,
You may be aware that there will be a higher number of planned protests in the city centre
this weekend. On Saturday 21 February, alongside regular demonstrations, the far-right
group Britain First will be holding a march, with counterprotests also planned.
These events are expected across several city centre locations and are likely to attract
large groups of people. Greater Manchester Police have a robust operational plan in place
to manage all protest activity.
I am absolutely clear – Manchester does not welcome Britain First to our city.
They represent a hateful, racist ideology that has no place here. Manchester is a
welcoming and friendly city, with a proud history of tolerance, fairness and respect but
the hate and division that this group foster has no place here. We have no time for racism
or hatred that looks to divide our communities.
We understand the alarm and distress that comes when a group like Britain First, which is
widely regarded as a far-right hate group, chooses to gather in our city. However, UK law
protects the right to freedom of expression and assembly. This means that protests are
allowed on the condition they engage fully with the local police force.
Greater Manchester Police have assured the Council that they will be policing this
protest seriously, robustly and with public safety as a top priority. We will continue
to work closely with GMP along with other partners across the city to make sure the
demonstration is carefully managed to limit disruption and to keep Manchester open,
safe and peaceful for everyone.
We understand the impact this event may have on residents, especially for those
communities who have too often been the target of hate or experience racism. Our city
stands firm – Manchester will never tolerate racism, Islamophobia, antisemitism, bigotry
or any attempt to intimidate and divide our communities. These behaviours have no
place here.
Manchester’s strength comes from the diversity of its people, and we are proud of
every community that contributes to the life of this city. Manchester has always been
defined by compassion, courage and unity – and those values are far stronger than those
who seek to spread fear or division.
Manchester standing united against hate
Whatever challenges we face, Manchester stands together. Our unity is stronger
than hate and the values that unite us will always hold firm.
We are making this poster available for residents, communities and local
organisations to share online as well as download and display if you wish.
At a time when groups promoting division seek attention, our strength comes from
standing united – celebrating our diversity and supporting one another.
You can also download a copy of the poster from the MCC website
www.manchester.gov.uk/stand-together
Reporting hate crime
Anyone can report hate crime by using GMP’s online form, calling 101, or visiting their
local police station. Further details can be found on the GMP website. True Vision is a national website that allows you to report hate crime online without needing to visit a police station.
The British Muslim Trust provides confidential support and safe reporting for victims of
anti‑Muslim hate across the UK.
Community Security Trust (CST) is a charity protecting British Jews from antisemitism
and related threats and provide a confidential route to report antisemitism.
We know how unsettling it can be for our diverse communities when far-right groups
come to our city. Whatever challenges we face, Manchester stands together.
Our unity is stronger than hate and the values that unite us will always hold firm.
Cllr Bev Craig OBE
Leader of the Council
S4B would like to reassure customers that hate crime will not be tolerated. Hate crime of any kind is an offence and we would urge anyone who has been a victim of abuse to report it immediately. The S4B housing office remains a 3rd Party reporting centre. If you, or anyone you know, is suffering any form of hate crime, it can be reported at the S4B housing office, 15 Brunswick Street, M13 9SU in private and in total confidence.