The Beautiful Resistance
On 19.03.22 the “March Against Racism” put 12,000 on streets in London, Glasgow and Cardiff to say “All Refugees Welcome” to fight for a “ World Against Racism.”
Many of the speakers across the platform of #MarchAgainstRacism here in Britain highlighted, in the wake of the outbreak of war in Ukraine and millions of refugees fleeing the war, the racism that was being faced by Black and Asian people at the borders as they were turned away. They also drew attention to the hypocrisy of many establishment figures who have talked of the shock of war in a “civilised society”, and speakers also pointed to the stark contrast of attitude and response to black and ethnic minority refugees who have fled wars in the present and past. (Stand Up To Racism)
I spoke with three activists that day and wanted to show the diversity of communities in my portraits.
“Proud to be supporting Stand Up to Racism’s event. Music has always brought people together and we showed that when we stand tall and sing loud our voices are heard the whole world round. Thank you to DJ Karnage, Riko Dan, Flow Dan and the organisers for always supporting the cause and bringing that power to stamp out racism.” (Sharmaine)
“Standing up to racism is not just making a sign and protesting, it’s educating and arguing your point any day of the week, it’s the right people exiting your life, it’s understanding white privilege, whiteness and the damage of our colonial past. It’s recognising the lack of Afrocentrism that represents our brothers and sisters around the globe, recognising that people are allowed refuge based on the colour of their skin. No incident is an isolated incident.
We stand as one.” (Finola)
Another key theme raised by many speakers was solidarity with “Child Q” in wake of the horrific racist strip searching of a school student by police and the outcry of rage in response. Bhatt Murphy, the solicitors acting on behalf of Child Q, pleaded with the public to help maintain her anonymity. Teachers told the review that on the day of the search in 2020 they believed Child Q was smelling strongly of cannabis and suspected that she might be carrying drugs. On questioning Child Q, she denied using or having any drugs in her possession. A search of her bag, blazer, scarf, and shoes revealed nothing of significance. There is an on-going enquiry however it is clear this is yet another example of racism in the education and Police authorities. MP Diane Abbott called for “some sort of sanction on the police officers.” At a recent protest in Hackney people were chanting “Action, action speaks louder than words, they must go” however we all demand that an incident like this never happens again.
Please do not use or reproduce these images on Websites/Blog or
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©Kings Davis 2022
