04/08/2024
Yesterday, the city of Hull experienced a violent eruption of far-right extremism that has been brewing beneath the surface for some time. A riot broke out, targeting minority groups and leaving the community in shock and fear. The violent mob attacked a local mosque, the Royal Hotel, and vandalised LGBTQIA+ signage, highlighting the growing intolerance and hatred within the city. Missiles were thrown at peaceful counter-protesters, escalating the situation into a dangerous confrontation.
For years, Hull Pledge has been sounding the alarm about the rise of far-right extremism in the city. We have persistently warned the city council, police, and Members of Parliament about the escalating threat. Despite these warnings, there has been a significant lack of action from authorities, which allowed the circumstances that led to the tragic events witnessed yesterday.
The mosque, a symbol of peace and community for many residents, was targetted along with the Royal Hotel, which houses refugees in need of shelter and safety. This attack is not just an assault on buildings, but on the refugees who have sought shelter here, and the Muslim community in Hull, who may now feel unsafe in their place of worship, nobody should be fearful to live authentically. Similarly, the LGBTQIA+ community has been left reeling from the destruction of signage and LGBTQIA+ flag painted phone boxes, a symbol of pride and acceptance. These actions are a blatant attempt to intimidate and marginalise already vulnerable groups.
We were among the peaceful counter-protesters, who gathered to stand against hate and bigotry, and we found ourselves under attack as missiles were thrown at us, and following a charge from the far right crowds we needed to scatter and move to safety. This violent response underscores the urgent need for decisive action against far-right groups in Hull. The riot is a stark reminder that hatred, if left unchecked, can quickly spiral into violence and chaos.
Hull Pledge has long argued that the rise of the far right is not an isolated issue but a systemic problem that requires a comprehensive approach. We have called for increased community outreach, education on tolerance and diversity, and a zero-tolerance policy towards hate crimes which have risen in number every month this year. Our pleas have largely fallen on deaf ears, resulting in a growing sense of frustration and helplessness within the community.
Yesterday’s events should serve as a wake-up call for Hull’s leaders. The city council, police, and MPs must take immediate and concrete steps to address the threat of far-right extremism. This includes not only condemning the violence in the strongest terms but also taking proactive measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
One immediate action could be the establishment of a task force dedicated to monitoring and countering far-right activities. This task force should work closely with community organisations to ensure that their insights and concerns are heard and addressed. Additionally, increased funding for programs that promote inclusivity and diversity could help build a more resilient and united community. Cohesion is not just a word, its the goal, it is the backbone of a functioning, fear free society and the leaders in the city must realise that.
The far-right riot in Hull is a clear indication that more needs to be done to protect minority groups and uphold the values of tolerance and diversity. It is a call to action for all citizens to stand together against hate and work towards a more inclusive and harmonious society.
The time for complacency is over; it is now time for Hull to take a stand and reclaim its identity as a city of acceptance and unity.
