As I recall the atrocious behaviour of the far right in August 2024 in wake of the stabbings in Southport, I feel a sense of relief that its passing has left with it a symbolic lesson of triumph over social tyranny. During that awful time, I experienced anxious thoughts and concerns for the members of NLEMA that were escaping racialisation and inequalities of the same if not similar nature.
Fear is a powerful weapon, especially if it is internally consuming oneself in a self-sabotaging manner. I for one can speak to being a victim of media propaganda, feeding into the negative narratives I was being exposed to by social media however, I was reminded of the powers that lie within the unity of community spirit. As many led in opposition of the intended far right political protest in Glasgow, my local community in North Lanarkshire raised a flag of support and security.
I would like to extend my gratitude to those that braved the challenges of timidity and endorsed an ethos of togetherness by embracing one another’s assurance through a difficult time. Comforting one another by “just checking in” was surely enough to give us all the hope that we, as a community, can weather any storm as we aim to build a safe and inclusive environment for our children to flourish.
– January 2025