22-06-2025
Thousands march through Glasgow in solidarity with refugees
The event was organised by the Stand Up to Racism campaign and supported by organisations including the Scottish Refugee Council, Positive Action in Housing, and the STUC.
Chants of 'Say it loud, say it clear! Refugees are welcome here!' and 'No nations, no borders! Stop deportations!' echoed through the Trongate as marchers made their way through the city.
(Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry)
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The march began at Barrowlands Park in the East End and followed a route through Moir Street, London Road, Trongate, Glassford Street, Ingram Street, South Frederick Street, George Square, St Vincent Place, St Vincent Street, Renfield Street, Union Street, Argyle Street, Queen Street, Ingram Street again, and Candleriggs, before concluding at The Old Fruitmarket.
At the Old Fruitmarket, a rally was held featuring speakers and live music.
An estimated 2000 people were expected to join the march, held in conjunction with World Refugee Day.
(Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry)
READ MORE: Thousands expected for march to support refugees in Glasgow
As reported last week, Refugee Festival Scotland had encouraged people to take part and show their solidarity with refugees in Glasgow and around the world.
They said: 'Join us for a procession through Glasgow city centre in solidarity with people seeking safety, followed by a carnival hosted by Love Music Hate Racism in the Old Fruitmarket.
'Refugees are an integral part of our communities, workplaces and families. Join us to demand safe passage and support the 'Lift the Ban' campaign to grant asylum seekers the right to work.'
(Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry)
READ MORE: Road closures expected as 2000 to march through Glasgow
The march and rally marked the culmination of Refugee Festival Scotland, which is taking place throughout the month. The festival has featured music, culture, art, education, and sporting events in Glasgow and across Scotland.
Refugee Festival Scotland stated: 'In these tough times, bringing people from different backgrounds together to build friendship, solidarity and a sense of shared community is more important than ever.
'By uniting against racist violence and calling out hostile UK government policies, we're showing that a better way is possible.
'Let's celebrate the music, dance, food, art, language and ideas that people bring with them when they settle in Scotland.'
(Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry) (Image: Robert Perry)
The Glasgow Times also reported that more than ten roads in the city centre experienced disruption.
Rolling road closures were put in place to ensure the safety of participants.