Lewisham is saying “Yes” to diversity. Pic: Stand Up to Racism and Fascism

Lewisham residents gathered today for an anti-racism rally ahead of a planned day of action in Trafalgar Square next Saturday.

Members of the Lewisham Anti-Racist Action Group and local residents visited Lewisham College, Goldsmiths University and Brockley and Lewisham stations speaking with the public and handing out flyers.

The campaign group which has been dubbed ‘Stand Up To Racism and Fascism’ follows UKIP leader Nigel Farage’s recent statement that he felt “awkward” when sharing a train with non-English passengers.

Richard Abendorff, 51, a Stand Up To Racism supporter, said: “We call it a day of action because we’re mobilising the people. It’s meant to be a celebratory thing, it’s not only opposing racism, it’s celebrating our diversity.”

Goldsmiths student Kate Hurford, 22, said: “We’re such a diverse borough, and I think it’s really important that we send a positive message, saying that we’re against racism, full stop. I think this is a really positive thing of people coming together and saying no, Britain is multi-cultural, Britain is diverse and we’re proud of that.”

Stand Up To Racism and Fascism’s day of action begins with a procession from Nelson Mandela statue in Parliament Square to Trafalgar Square on Saturday March 22 from 11am.