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Thousands Rally in Belfast to Reject Racist Violence

The mass protest responded to a wave of xenophobic street attacks that left residents intimidated and some too afraid to return home.

Overview

  • A large, organised march led by Unite Against Racism drew thousands to Belfast to show public opposition to recent anti‑immigrant violence.
  • The protests followed several nights of clashes in which police used water cannon against stone‑throwing mobs and vehicles and houses were set on fire.
  • Officials reported people were stopped and questioned about their nationality and that some were driven from their homes because of their skin colour.
  • Local groups and councillors said charities and community organisations have been finding emergency housing and support for those too frightened to go back.
  • Coverage and accounts link the unrest to a viral video blaming a Sudanese migrant and to social‑media posts and calls by right‑wing activists that helped amplify tensions within wider immigration debates.