Tens Of Thousands In London Rally Against Fascism,... (Press, 2 May 1978)

On 2 May 1978, more than 50,000 young people participated in a significant protest in London against Fascism and racism, marking it as one of the largest political demonstrations in Britain in two decades. Organised by the Anti-Nazi League, the event, dubbed the “Fun against Fascism” carnival march and pop festival, combined a political protest with live music to engage a younger audience. The gathering focused primarily on opposing the National Front, a right-wing political party known for its racist agenda and intent to expel the country’s two million-strong coloured community. While the National Front claimed to acknowledge their racist views, they denied accusations of being fascist and had managed to secure around five per cent of votes in local elections without ever winning a seat in the House of Commons. Miriam Karlin, a Jewish television star and leader of the Anti-Nazi League, delivered a powerful message to the crowd in Trafalgar Square, calling for unity and resilience against Nazi ideologies. She emphasised the importance of demonstrating courage to fight back against racism, invoking the haunting memories of the Holocaust to underline the stakes involved in their advocacy. The march featured an array of entertainment, including performances from punk bands like the Clash and the Tom Robinson Band, the latter being fronted by a homosexual artist who used his platform for liberal causes. The visual aspect of the protest was marked by many participants sporting “punk” attire, reflecting a culture characterised by its anti-authoritarian stance and roots in disenfranchised urban youth. The police estimated the crowd size at around 20,000 in Trafalgar Square alone, with many more arriving late; however, the Anti-Nazi League claimed a total turnout of approximately 60,000 when accounting for those attending the music festival. Multiple special trains and hired coaches facilitated the transportation of supporters, showcasing the movement's broad appeal and significance. The event not only highlighted the opposition to the National Front’s agenda but also aimed to foster a collective identity against racism and promote social cohesion among diverse communities. Through music and protest, the Anti-Nazi League strived for a united stand against extremist ideologies in British society.

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