Howard Park rally highlights intolerance of racism in East Ayrshire
Kilmarnock’s Howard Park last month played host to a ‘Stand Up to Racism’ rally, where members of the community came together against racism, misogyny and hate speech.
With live music, food and information stalls from a range of supporting organisations, the event was a wonderful show of unity, sending a clear message that racism has no place in East Ayrshire.
In attendance was East Ayrshire Provost, Claire Leitch, who addressed the crowd and echoed the day’s sentiment of equality for all and intolerance to the prejudice which negatively affects the lives of so many:
“I was honoured to speak as Provost at the ‘Stand Up to Racism’ rally in the Howard Park in Kilmarnock.
“It was inspiring to see our community come together through voices, music and shared purpose – to stand against racism and inequality.
“The live music in the park was immense, and the lived experience speeches powerfully highlighted the bias, discrimination and challenges people continue to face today.
“Thank you to everyone who organised the event, took part, and came along to show their support.”
A post on Stand Up to Racism Ayrshire’s Instagram page said:
“Today we kicked off Stand Up to Racism Ayrshire with a real bang!
“On our first anti-racism rally in Ayrshire we pulled in 100 people, with great political speeches from Claire Leitch, East Ayrshire Provost, Women Against the Far-Right, Falkirk For All and many others.
“The sun was shining, the music was blaring and anti-racism was everywhere you turned.
“Today was the start of something great in Ayrshire!
“Special thanks to speakers, bands and supporters.”
Find out more about Stand Up to Racism Ayrshire on their Instagram page, @standuptoracismayrshire.
