I fully support Leicester Council’s application to ban the English Defence League’s march in Leicester on Saturday 9th October, and I’m pleased that the Home Secretary has now authorised a ban on all marches in the city centre this weekend. However, it’s likely that the EDL will still go ahead with a static protest (which can’t be banned) that will take place on Humberstone Gate East.

The council and police are encouraging people to stay away from the city centre on Saturday and instead take part in the ‘We are One Leicester’ events on Friday 8th and Sunday 10th which are being organised by the Council and Hope Not Hate.

Please join us at these events and show the overwhelming majority of people in Leicester are proud of our diverse city, that we oppose racism, discrimination and violence of all forms, and that the EDL are not welcome here.

Friday 8th October

Peace Vigil – Lead by Hope not Hate
4.30pm: Clock Tower
Come and pray for peace in Leicester and help dress the city in lime green ribbons.

Vigil for Leicester – Pray for Peace over the Weekend
5.30pm – 6.30pm: Leicester Cathedral

All welcome; people of all faiths and people who are not religious. Wear lime green to show your support!

Sunday 10th October

We are One Leicester Festival
1pm – 4pm: Humberstone Gate (in front of the Big Screen)

An afternoon of music, dancing, sport, plus arts & crafts to celebrate diversity in Leicester, with a performance by Billy Bragg at the start and Reverend and The Makers completing the programme.

Stage performances also include: Egyptian Dance, Bali Rai, De Montfort University Gospel Choir, Nupra Arts, Red Leicester Choir and more…

Activities and entertainment in and around the marquees include: Face Painting, Soft Touch Arts, the Street Vibe Bus, the Book Bus with stories from around the world, a Steel Band and more.

Sign the Community Cohesion Charter Board ‘We are One Leicester’ to show support for your city.

Don’t forget – wear lime green at the events to show your support!