As the results unfold in a predictably close US Presidential election, Black Lives Matter and anti-racist campaigners will be joining forces this evening in a socially distanced demonstration outside the US embassy (details below).
Campaigners argue that Donald Trump’s call on the Supreme Court to stop all votes being counted is an affront to democracy and a fear of defeat, despite the bluster of victory. The demonstration will demand that Trump must go, but whatever the final outcome the anti-racist and Black Lives Matter movement will go on.
Sabby Dhalu, Stand up to Racism Co-Convenor said: “Trump’s call on the Supreme Court to stop all votes being counted is an affront to democracy and reflects fear of defeat. Racism has been the hallmark of Donald Trump’s presidency and in response millions of people across the globe and in the US have mobilised to say Black Lives Matter, and to stand up to racism and fascism. It’s time for Trump to go but whatever the outcome the movement against racism goes on.”
Iannis Delatolis, United Against Racism & Fascism NYC said: “We know that regardless of the election results there needs to be a vibrant antifascist and anti-racist movement. Under Trump the far-right and the fascists are organized more than ever before and are resembling a movement that is a real threat to black people, to LatinX and to immigrants. We need to build on the momentum of the BLM uprising to beat back the fascist threat.”
All Black Lives UK said: “As many of us know, American politics affects the whole world, their relationship with Britain is extremely important, and a lot of things that happen over in America, mirror in this country too. It is important for us to show our solidarity with the American people in these troubling times and we must always help in the discussion of what we can do to move forward and make sure our goals for racial equality are met here and across the pond.”
Weyman Bennett, Stand up to Racism Co-Convenor said: “The votes are not being counted and trumps attempt to steal the election is an affront to democracy. If anything the United States has attempted to disenfranchise black communities Latina communities and anybody who calls for justice in a racist society. We have to recognise in this polarised election the elements of the far right and racist immobilising to destroy what little rights we already have. It’s important that we unite everybody regardless of the outcome to make sure there is a continuous fight against racism, Islamophobia and anti-Semitism”
Speakers addressing the protest include Stand Up To Racism and All Black Lives UK activists who have been at the forefront of the #BlackLivesMatter movement that emerged in Britain, and a number of those who have been in the headlines after they were subjected to disgraceful police racism and brutality here in Britain in the wake of Section 60.
Strictly socially distanced event – wear masks, avoid public transport, do not come if you are unwell or in a vulnerable category.
Trump Must Go!
Wednesday 4 November, 6pm
At the US Embassy, London SW11 7US
For further information, interviews and quotes:
info@standuptoracism.org.uk
Barbara Ntumy: 07561396598
Weyman Bennett: 07734032314
Sabby Dhalu: 07494876163