THE scenes of racist violence and far-right disorder seen at a rally in Glasgow “must never become normalised”, the Scottish Greens have said.
The Unite the Clans protest at Glasgow Green on Saturday saw disorder and multiple violent incidents, leading to some 15 arrests being made by police, including for possession of an offensive weapon, assault, breach of the peace, obstruction and resisting arrest.
Videos have also circulated on social media showing people of colour being confronted on the streets of Glasgow, including a delivery driver being attacked with a traffic cone by a far-right thug.
Punches and projectiles were also thrown at the initial rally as the anti-immigration group approached anti-racism campaigners, while some performed what appeared to be Nazi salutes.
It comes amid several weeks of increased far-right and anti-immigration protests across Glasgow.
Now, the Scottish Greens have appealed to all political parties to work together to “keep our communities safe” and added that these sorts of scenes “must never become normalised”.
The party’s Glasgow MSP Patrick Harvie said: “Violent mobs targeting people because of the colour of their skin have no place in our city and do not reflect Glasgow or its values.
“After a summer of far-right violence and intimidation, I am hearing from more and more people who are frightened to go out in their own communities.”
He added: “The far right is growing in confidence and becoming increasingly emboldened. That is why we are seeing such dangerous escalation.
“Political parties have a responsibility to work together to keep our communities safe. But we cannot ignore the role that some Reform MSPs in particular have played in stoking the fear, division and hostility that these groups thrive on.
“It was heartening to see so many more people turn out to stand against hate. The people of Glasgow showed the true character of our city by standing in solidarity with their friends, neighbours and everyone targeted by racism.
“Now that solidarity must be matched with action. We cannot allow intimidation and hatred to take root in our communities. Glasgow has always been at its best when it stands together, and that is how we will defeat those who seek to divide us.”
David Linden, the SNP MSP for Glasgow Baillieston and Shettleston, added: "Glasgow is a welcoming city and those who choose to make their lives here are valued members of our society.
“Glaswegians should not have to fear violence from a small racist minority. The far-right agitators responsible for yesterday’s racist violence do not represent the people of Glasgow or Scotland.
“I thank Police Scotland for their work to restore the peace and they will have my full support in bringing those responsible to justice.”
