17.10.2001

Glasgow protest

Around 2,000 people protested against the war in George Square. The day?s events began with a rally, with speakers including Tommy Sheridan, George Galloway and John McAllion. The church and CND were also represented.

The march, led by drummers, followed the city centre streets around George Square where it eventually reassembled. What was noticeable on arriving back was the extent to which the march had grown since the initial rally. Hundreds of people had abandoned their Saturday afternoon shopping to join the demonstration.

The composition of the march was diverse: the Scottish Socialist Party was the largest organisation represented, but CND had a significant presence and there was also a small anarchist contingent. There was a strong youth presence - mainly due to the work put into building for the demonstration around the colleges and universities. What was also important was the turnout from the islamic community, who, prior to now, had not been heavily involved in the anti-war coalition, perhaps out of fear of becoming the target of chauvinist scapegoating.

The demonstration was very upbeat and managed to incorporate a diverse range of groups and individuals. What was disappointing, though, was the overall turnout, given the current situation. By the end of the march its size had grown to 2,500-3,000. However, this is just the beginning and, as long as Bush and Blair continue their ?crusade against terrorism?, such protests - across Britain - are bound to grow.

Sarah McDonald