News / Bristol
Bristol stands united against racism
“In the absence of opposition, the far right grows, but together we are going to make sure it does not have any place in Bristol, or anywhere else.”
These were the words of Fred Jerrome, who stood with families, individuals, campaigners and city leaders on College Green on Tuesday, in a show of solidarity against racism and white supremacy.
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is needed now More than ever
People gathered to pay their respects to civil rights activist, Heather Heyer, who died when a car ploughed into a group of counter-protesters during white supremacist marches in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Saturday.
Jerrome, a trade union officer and chair of Bristol Young Labour, added that the public action was only the first step in the bid to stamp out racial hatred, as he called on those gathered to speak out against injustice in their communities.
Marvin Rees says white supremacy is always bubbling below the surface
Speaking at the vigil, mayor Marvin Rees said: “My first reaction to this is it’s horrific, but I’m not surprised and I’m not shocked by what I see, because white supremacy is always bubbling below the surface.
“It exists a bit closer to home than many of us would like to admit.”
He told of his own experiences of being in America and the fear he might face discrimination from police, adding: “This is horrific and shocking, but it’s not just in America, it’s a global problem.”
Asher Craig says she is judged every day by the colour of her skin
Echoing his sentiments, deputy mayor Asher Craig said: “The events of the weekend were horrendous, but also an indictment of the way America is going under this president.
“I’m judged each day on the colour of my skin. Covert racism exists and many are guilty of it.
“Today we stand with friends in Charlottesville, but we also need to remember others who have lost their lives.”
Homemade signs condemn white supremacy and call for people to speak out against racism
Children brandished homemade signs at the vigil and one attendee travelled from Cardiff to stand in solidarity with the people of Bristol in the fight against racism.
Xena Brunel (pictured beside Marvin Rees) travelled from Cardiff for the vigil
As the final speaker, Bristol South MP Karin Smyth condemned President Trump’s permissive leadership for enabling such open facism to take place, resulting in the tragic events of Saturday.
People gathered to remember Heather Heyer
Read more: Vigil in Bristol after death of civil rights activist
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