Home   Thanet   News   Article

Police warning ahead of far right 'White Lives Matter' march

Police have issued a warning ahead of the UK's first White Lives Matter demonstration in Margate on Saturday.

The extremist East Kent English Patriots - whose members were also involved in the Dover protests - advertised the march on their Facebook page.

The hard-right marchers are expected to be met by anti-fascist demonstrators from Thanet Stand Up to Racism, who have branded White Lives Matter a racist organisation.

The Dover protests
The Dover protests

The Kent Anti-racism Network has called on its members to “come together and stand to ensure this hateful march does not pass".

Thanet Says No To Racism said the White Lives Matter march will stir up racial tension in Margate.

Also taking place on Saturday is music festival Margate Rocks Against Racism which organisers hope will celebrate diversity and promote mutual respect.

Police at the Dover protests that led to rioting on January 30.
Police at the Dover protests that led to rioting on January 30.

Organiser Kaz Peet said: “Through the power of music and the impact of people coming together, it is our intention to overcome the hateful and divisive message of the white supremacist group White Lives Matter.

“The event will take place on the same day as the neo-Nazi march, not in conflict or as confrontation, but to offer an essential and inclusive, beacon of light, and safety in the community at that time.”

Similar marches in Dover earlier this year ended in violence, and police have warned they will take action against anyone who causes trouble.

Police spokesman Sally Smith said: "We are aware of a march taking place on Saturday from Margate railway station. We are also aware of a music event being held on the same day.

"We have a legal obligation to enable peaceful protest and have a great deal of experience in planning for and facilitating of such events.

"Anyone travelling to the area with the intent of committing an offence should be aware that officers will be proactive in taking action against those who do not act lawfully.

"We would ask all people, both locals and visitors, to support the police in keeping Margate peaceful on Saturday."

The White Lives Matter protests started in the US in response to Black Lives Matter, a group demonstrating against police brutality.

The event is the first of its kind in the UK.

A tagline on the poster shared by East Kent English Patriots reads "Most whites are brainwashed and believe its [sic] wrong to love and support their our [sic] race. Its [sic] not."

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More