Rise of far-right groups discussed at city rally

THE implications for Welsh communities of the rise of far-right groups across Europe was debated at an antifascism rally this weekend.

Leading author Liz Fekete, director of the Institute of Race Relations, was among more than 50 people who attended the talk at the Bangladesh Centre in Cardiff, where guest speakers also included Cathays councillor Ali Ahmed and other local Muslim activists.

“In the last few weeks, a far-right party makes an electoral breakthrough in Sweden, while in east Germany, police all but lose control of the streets as a far-right demonstration descends into an anti-foreigner rampage,” said Liz Fekete.

“What happens in one European country profoundly influences developments in the next. This timely meeting will consider the Europeandimension to fascism, and what implication it has for Wales.”

Abyd Quinn Aziz, a local Muslim activist also speaking at the event, said: “We have seen the increase in racism and more specifically Islamophobia over the last few years. These have become more commonplace and people have become more emboldened by comments not just from the far right but senior politicians and commentators in mainstream society.

“As Baroness Warsi said, hostility to Muslims has passed the dinner table test and it is now something ordinary people fear within their streets and towns. We need to reclaim these streets and towns to reflect the enriching multicultural nature of our country.”

Councillor Ali Ahmed praised the efforts of the community and thanked people for attending.

He said: “I want to thank you all, I can see former headteachers, my colleagues and lots of other friends, demonstrating.

“Thank you very much for coming because it’s very important we all stay together.”