Thousands of people turn out to pro-independence march in Wales

THOUSANDS of people have turned out to a pro-independence march in Wales.

More than 6000 people marched through the streets of Barry on Saturday calling for Welsh independence.

The March for Independence, organised by groups YesCymru and AUOBCymru, brought people together from across Wales, as organisers said they hope it serves as "a powerful show of unity and hope for a better future".

(Image: YesCymru) After the march, people gathered for a rally where speeches were given by an all-woman line up. Speakers included former Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood, Catalan campaigner Anna Arque and Wales Green Party spokesperson Tessa Marshall.

Wood said: “It’s time to end our dependence. We have an opportunity to build an alternative to the failed economic model that serves the City of London while leaving crumbs for communities in Wales.

“In the face of growing intolerance and hate, our movement must offer hope. We know our country can do better.”

Arque, who is also a spokesperson for the International Commission of European Citizens, said: “Movements like ours believe democracy is the best path to full self-determination, even when it clashes with the interests of the states we’re trapped within.

“That’s why solidarity among our nations is vital.”

Marshall said: “We can’t afford to stay shackled to the British state. Child poverty in Wales is not the result of bad choices – it’s decades of underinvestment and decisions made far from communities like ours.

“An independent Wales can stand for children, end hunger and cold homes, and fund a decent start to life.”

The march comes after a poll earlier this month put support for Welsh independence at a staggering 41%.

The Redfield & Wilson poll, commissioned by YesCymru, also found that support for independence rose to 72% among 25 to 34-year-olds.

The poll questioned 1000 adults aged 18+ in Wales between March 24 and 27. 

YesCymru chair Phyl Griffiths said: “What we’ve seen today in Barry is a reflection of the mood across Wales – people are ready for change, and independence is no longer a fringe idea. It’s a serious, hopeful response to a broken system.

“We’re seeing growing support, especially among younger generations who’ve had enough of being told Wales is too small or too poor.

“We know better – and today, thousands of people showed that we’re ready to take our future into our own hands.”