Protest against BNP's 'festival of hate'

THE MIDLANDS TUC has called a protest on 15 August against the racist BNP's Red White and Blue 'festival' that takes place on 14-16 August near Denby Village, Derbyshire.

Last year, around 500 people protested against the event and two new groups (Amber Valley Campaign Against Racism and Fascism and Derby Campaign Against Racism and Fascism) were formed with the support of the Notts Stop the BNP (NSBNP) which played a key role in organising last year.

This year, following a Unison resolution, the protest is called by the Midlands TUC. It is possible that larger numbers will attend if the regional and national union offices campaign for a turnout.

I would call on all anti-fascists to come on 15 August as we need to keep the pressure on the BNP and also the local authority. We know coaches are coming from around the country. Check if transport is travelling from your area and if not, we would want you to book some.

A complaint from residents about the local authority ignoring their concerns over the RWB event in 2008 is going to the Ombudsman.

There will be a rally at 11am preceding the march and then a final rally afterwards. The local groups would also like a regional mobilisation at 9am so that attendees at the BNP's event see some opposition as they drive through nearby Codnor.

We welcome the UAF call for a national mobilisation on 15 August. They also plan for a 9am turnout although there is doubt whether their statement that they want to "kettle" the RWB festival is practical. The co-ordinating committee is trying to bring UAF on board with negotiations with the police and combined rallies, a joint march and joint stewarding.

As well as local speakers, a number of named speakers have been/are being contacted including Judy Mallaber MP for Amber Valley, Brian Caton (general secretary POA), Unison, Leroy Rosenior (Show Racism the Red Card), UAF.

James Newton, NSBNP