In a significant display of dissent, thousands of protesters have gathered in Parliament Square to voice their opposition to US President Donald Trump's second state visit to the UK. The rally, organized by the Stop Trump Coalition, is a collective of over 50 unions and charities, showcasing a diverse array of voices united against Trump's policies and rhetoric.
The protest commenced at approximately 15:00 BST, with demonstrators marching from Portland Place in central London towards Whitehall. Carrying a variety of signs featuring slogans such as "No to Racism," "No to Trump," and "Stop Arming Israel," the protesters made their sentiments clear. Among the crowd, smaller versions of the infamous 20ft Trump Baby blimp made a reappearance, a symbol that gained notoriety during protests surrounding Trump's first visit in 2019.
The Metropolitan Police estimated attendance at around 5,000 people, and have deployed over 1,600 officers, including 500 from other forces, to maintain order during the event. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Louise Puddefoot emphasized the importance of minimizing disruption to the local community, as police remained in close contact with the protest organizers to ensure a peaceful demonstration.
The Stop Trump Coalition comprises a wide range of groups, including climate activists, anti-racism advocates, and pro-Palestine organizations. In light of the protest, a spokesperson for the coalition stated, "A government that will bow down to Trump and to racism is one that will open the door to fascism." Although Trump is not scheduled to visit Parliament, the coalition aims to challenge the politics of Trumpism and promote an alternative vision centered on peace, social justice, and international cooperation.
As the demonstration unfolded, individuals shared their motivations for protesting. Many expressed deep-seated grievances against the US president, labeling him as despicable and emphasizing their intent to send a clear message that he is unwelcome in the UK. Reverend Poppy Hughes remarked on the importance of compassion, asserting, "Jesus preached peace and compassion and that's why I'm here."
Zoe Gardner, a political commentator and protest organizer, voiced her frustrations, stating, "Trump represents everything that we hate." She urged the UK government to display moral fortitude and reflect the widespread discontent towards Trump's politics.
Climate activist Auriel Dowty Glanville, attending from Wimbledon, condemned Trump's climate denial, stating that climate change poses the greatest threat to humanity. She criticized the invitation for Trump's second state visit, asserting that it all revolves around trade deals.
Demonstrators Sarah Montgomery and Claudio Solano, from North London, donned protective face masks emblazoned with "Trump Stinks." They shared that these masks dated back to Trump's first visit, with Sarah declaring, "He still stinks. Everything he stands for stinks." Solano, originally from Brazil, expressed disapproval of Trump's policies and his support for Brazil's former right-wing leader, Jair Bolsonaro, calling the situation "disgusting."
As the protest progressed, the crowd paused outside Downing Street, where officers from Wales and Northern Ireland were stationed to ensure security. Many protesters waved signs with humorous slogans like "Duck Off Donald" and "Feed Him to the Corgis." The march culminated at Parliament Square, featuring a stage where various speakers, including singer Billy Bragg, former Labour MPs Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, comedian Nish Kumar, and Green Party leader Zack Polanski, were expected to address the crowd.
This rally not only highlights the ongoing discontent with Trump's administration but also embodies a broader call for a more compassionate and just global community. The voices of those gathered in Parliament Square reflect a commitment to social justice and a rejection of divisive politics.
