Belfast Anti-Immigration and Anti-Racism Rallies Held

Belfast City Centre witnessed significant protests as an anti-immigration rally was met with a much larger counter-demonstration advocating against racism. The anti-racism rally, organized by United Against Racism, included participation from trade unions, political parties, and cultural groups, drawing thousands more attendees than the anti-immigration group. Both rallies were held peacefully, with a substantial police presence ensuring order, and traffic disruptions were brief. Political figures from Sinn Féin, SDLP, People Before Profit, and the Green Party addressed the anti-racism crowd, emphasizing Belfast's history of activism and the importance of community support against racism. The anti-immigration protest, organized online under the banner 'Time to Rise', was marked by the display of Union flags and Irish tricolours, with some attendees expressing concerns over immigration. Despite concerns, the protests concluded without major incidents, highlighting the city's resilience against divisive rhetoric.