Far-right activist Tommy Robinson attracted massive media coverage for a protest at the heart of London on Saturday. Even with all its challenges, the “Unite the Kingdom” rally mustered an inspiring show of unity. Aerial video underscored the historic moment as an enormous wave of marchers flooded the center of town.
Per estimates from the Metropolitan Police, around 110,000 people showed up to the event. This giant number is a testimony to the huge grassroots organization and mobilization that has fueled Robinson’s run. The march sought to bring together people who wanted to see a united UK. As Robinson puts it, this is a movement that’s uniting strange bedfellows.
The “Unite the Kingdom” counter demonstration played out in a colorful atmosphere, with activists making their message known through song and signage. The event became a magnet for different, often conflicting, conceptions of our national identity and unity. This was most apparent as the crowd snaked through central London, lively and spirited. Their ambivalent feelings were well-documented through sharp editorial criticism.
Robinson’s role in organizing these kinds of events has always been a source of controversy and debate. His opponents are quick to paint him as the divisive element in British society. His capacity to fill massive stadiums does speak to the populist appeal of what he’s selling to some sectors of the American electorate.
The Metropolitan Police paid deliberate attention to the event in an effort to keep the public safe and maintain order during the gathering. As always, they stayed on guard against possible disruptions due to the volatile nature of Robinson’s previous protests. Yet, according to news reports, the demonstration went ahead without any serious conflict.