While inside Stormont the Northern Ireland Assembly was recalled for a special sitting to discuss the recent violent disorder, crowds gathered outside to listen to speeches and songs and demanding action from MLAs.
The Stand Against Racism Unite in Hope rally saw banners reading “refugees welcome” and “hate is never the answer” held aloft in front of Parliament Buildings.
A group from Migration Justice Ireland project holding a 'Refugees Welcome banner
Speakers included Celine McStravick, NICVA chief executive, Paddy Mackel, chair of the Northern Ireland Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Patricia McKeown, Northern Ireland Regional Secretary of Unison and Susan Magutakuona, a nurse originally from Africa who works in Northern Ireland.
Paddy Mackel, commended those who have “literally and metaphorically put their arms around those attacked in the last week”.
“It has been a magnificent response from the community and community organisations – that is the best face of Belfast in action,” he told those gathered.
“We also stand united in demanding action from the Assembly, the Executive, the UK government and the police. All workers deserve their support, deserve their protection and they deserve respect.
“In our society, we welcome all workers, all people regardless of your skin colour, your religion, your ethnicity, your gender, your country of orientation, political beliefs or country of origin.”
Paddy Mackel, Chair of NIC-ICTU, speaking at the Stand Against Racism Rally
Patricia McKeown said some of their members "have been put out of their homes", “are afraid to go to work”, “afraid to come home” and are "fearful for their children".
She urged politicians to "stop the buck-passing" on tackling hate crime and “coordinate the response make sure that the resources go where the resources are needed, and work with the Trade union movement and with colleagues in Civil Society who believe in equality and human rights to protect our people”.
Patricia McKeown, Unison speaking at the Stand Against Racism Rally
Speaking at the rally Susan Magutakuona said: “Your skin is not something you can wear like a dress, or a top, it is something you are born with.”
After the recent disorder across the city, Ms Magutakuona, added: “I was so scared, because I didn’t expect it to reach that height, when the riots started.”
Susan Magutkuona, a nurse from Africa, speaking at the Stand Against Racism Rally
Celine McStravick said there is "no excuse" for the violence and disorder on Belfast's streets.
"We stand in solidarity with all ethnic minority communities, whose cultures, talents, and perspectives enrich our city. We must come together, as one community, to support those affected and reaffirm that Northern Ireland is a place for everyone."
“We must stand together to reject hate and embrace the diversity that strengthens our community.”
“This is not just a statement; it is a call to action for all of us. The community sector in Northern Ireland is uniquely placed to lead this change” she said.
Celine McStravick, NICVA Chief Executive, speaking at the Stand Against Racism Rally
‘Home Away From Home’ singer Tommy Sands led the anti-racism rally in song to close out the gathering.
Tommy Sands, musician and peace campaigner, singing at the Stand Against Racism Rally
Photos Copyright © Kevin Cooper Photoline NUJ
