Join us and other groups across Gloucestershire on Saturday 30th August from 12.30pm outside the Ibis Hotel in Gloucester, GL4 3DG
Take a stand in solidarity with people seeking asylum who are being threatened by a far right protest advertised to take place at 2pm at the Ibis Hotel in Gloucester where people seeking asylum are living.
Groups across Gloucestershire are working together to hold a non-confrontational counter protest. We won’t let the far right scapegoat people seeking refuge for the problems in this country – we won’t be divided.
Groups supporting the counter-protest include the Unite Community branch for Bath, Bristol, Gloucestershire and Swindon; Gloucester Trades Council; the South West region of the Public and Commercial Services Union; Unison Local Government branch; Stroud Against Racism; Stroud District Together With Refugees; Forest of Dean Stand Up To Racism, Palestine Solidarity Campaign Stroud District, Na'amod Gloucestershire, The RYSE, Stroud Ceasefire Now Coalition, Stroud District Green Party, Communist Party Gloucestershire, and us at Community Solidarity Stroud District.
Please join us and spread the word!
Key info & guidance
The far right say their protest will start at 2pm, we need as many people as possible to be there plenty of time beforehand – so we are meeting from 12:30pm.
- The location is a 35 minute walk from Gloucester train/bus station, but there are buses. Bus 8 to Brockworth at 12noon leaves a walk of 17 minutes.
- Bus 62 at 11.10am Stop C Stroud Merrywalks will connect with Bus 8 to Brockworth.
- Please ensure you travel to and leave the site with others if at all possible, we do not know what the far right protest will be like but counter-protestors are often targeted for violence. Stay safe – don’t travel alone.
- Tell people where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
- Wear ordinary clothing, cover up any campaign clothing and carry any campaign materials in a concealed way. It is best to leave jewellery at home. Please bring appropriate sanitary products if appropriate (it will be difficult to access a toilet)
- Please bring water and snacks but please do not bring alcoholic drink or drugs
- Bring medication that you may need (preferably in a prescription bottle) including inhalers if you are asthmatic, and keep a copy of emergency phone numbers and any medical information that someone may need to know
- Don’t bring anything that you wouldn’t want to get searched by the police or arrested with – including anything that could be interpreted as a weapon such as a banner that requires poles
- Please leave valuables at home
- If bringing a phone, make sure it is fully charged. If arrested, the police have the power to take your phone and search it for evidence. Make sure it is locked with a passcode and switch off any facial and fingerprint unlocking technology. You may wish to bring a portable phone charger if you have one.
- Do not engage with anyone who you think is far-right before you arrive at the point of counter protest – including shouting slogans. You have no idea what is around the corner
- Please identify and listen to the stewards on the day. They are managing the event – please follow instructions to leave when they are made, in the safest way possible
- Bring a notepad and pen to keep notes of any issues and the shoulder number of police officers.
- Write key numbers on your arm (preferably under a sleeve). Include: an emergency contact, the number of the Green & Black Cross Protest Support line (London: 07946 541511). If you get arrested it’s important to be able to get in touch with the people you need to – even if your phone is out of battery. It’s a good idea to write down a friend or family member’s number and keep it with you.
- Leave in groups, do not linger.
- If you go to a cafe, bar, or pub after the event, do not do so in the vicinity of the protest. This could leave you behind and possibly going to the same place as members of the far right who could abuse you
- When you know you are safe, let the people you informed about your intentions that you are safe
This guidance is not about being meek. It is about being smart and being able to contribute to the campaign work in the short, medium, and long run. It is about being organised. Stay safe so we can grow stronger.
Map of location:
For more protest and security guidance see:
Practical protest tips – Liberty
Effective mass mobilisation for Anti-Fascists – antifascist network
Who are we:
Community Solidarity Stroud District exists to build community led solidarity in the Stroud district to oppose the hatred of minorities and oppressed people arising from false and harmful information.
Please also see the following statement from the Local Authority:
Statement from Gloucester City Council
Gloucester City Council has issued a statement to those who are planning to attend and has warned those taking part to not ‘incite division, fear, or hostility’.
The statement states: “The council is aware of planned protests scheduled to take place during the day on Saturday outside a hotel on the outskirts of the city, which is currently housing asylum seekers placed by the Home Office.
“The council recognises the right to peaceful protest, but strongly condemns any actions or rhetoric that incite division, fear, or hostility within our communities. Gloucester is proud of its long-standing commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive city, and we remain steadfast in our approach.”
Gloucester City Council leader, Jeremey Hilton (Lib Dem) said: “We will not tolerate intimidation or hate speech in our city.
“We understand that immigration and housing are complex issues that evoke strong feelings. However, we must ensure that public discourse remains respectful and rooted in facts. The safety and dignity of all Gloucester residents — including asylum seekers — is paramount. We will not tolerate intimidation or hate speech in our city.”
The council statement adds: “We are working closely with Gloucestershire Constabulary and our partners to ensure public safety throughout the planned demonstration.
Community Solidarity Stroud District 