On Saturday 24 May 2025, Glasgow streets witnessed ‘refugees are welcome here’: a day of love, resistance and compassion.
A moment of joy to shock
What a memorable moment: a moment filled with joy, of solidarity, with refugees and Palestinians at the same time. However, my joy quickly turned to horror when a group resembling fascist approached the protest and became violent towards some of the organisers.
I saw one side holding Scottish and Palestinian flags, showing love, solidarity, and compassion, with protestors chanting loud and clear, “Refugees are welcome here!” Then, a couple of far-right members displayed their agenda of hate, violence, and aggression.
Every person there was angry about what seemed like fascist party crashers. None of us could imagine that the group grew from around four or five to about 25 people. They were using Nazi signs and verbally abusing many protestors.
Resistance in the rain: standing tall against injustice
As a refugee, all I can remember was compassion, love, and solidarity! Despite the rain, and despite how busy people’s lives are, people of all ages took the time to come to the streets. They were not afraid to let Glaswegians know where they stood, as they chanted “Say it loud, say it clear: Nazis are not welcome here!”
The clash between the far right group and protestors lasted until 10pm. Some of the ones behaving like fascists attempted to attack the solidarity crowd. They didn’t want to leave the Buchanan Gallery steps unless the organisers contacted the councillors.
Glasgow is not an island of strangers – It’s a ‘love island’
During my time at the protest, I had a wee chat with a lady who gifted me beautiful hand-made earrings, a gift I really loved. Glasgow isn’t an “island of strangers” – it’s a ‘love island’. No doubt, the wonderful people of Glasgow make it what it is, not the far right.
And so I say to Keir Starmer, as long as Glaswegians are here, your dream of creating an island of strangers will never be fulfilled. Glaswegians never fail to win our hearts, and stand together with integrity and for justice.
This is a powerful reminder of the strength of collective action, and the unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and show of solidarity. A sincere thanks to all who stayed up late, despite the rain! We all love you from the bottom of our hearts!
Glaswegians truly proved that in the end, love always wins.
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