Trumpism’s first clash with the North East’s rich anti-racist tradition shall not be the last, reports Dawn Warcup

Last night crowds of thousands gathered at Newcastle Monument carrying some of the most creative and witty banners seen on our streets in years.

People of all ages and nationalities were here to condemn racist Donald Trump’s ban on Muslim’s from entering the US and also to criticise Theresa May’s invitation for a state visit for the US president.

Buoyant

This emergency protest was organised in just twenty-four hours by Newcastle Unites and was supported by Newcastle Stop the War, North East People’s Assembly, Newcastle Palestine Solidarity Campaign and North East Stand up to Racism.

There was a brilliant, buoyant atmosphere, with the crowd being entertained by singer Bethany Ellen Coyle and there was much encouragement for chanting in support of refugees and against Trump. Speakers from several campaign groups reprimanded Trump for his misogyny and aggression, and several refugees talked of how they had fled their countries for safety.

Backlash

This important message of ‘Refugees are welcome here’ was heard not only in Newcastle, last night, but in cities and towns all around the UK and across the United States where a powerful backlash against Trump’s racism and sexism took place.