Unite Against Fascism call for protest to counter Dudley EDL demonstration
A second protest is being called to counter a demonstration by the English Defence League in Dudley, with activists saying they will not give the far right party the freedom of the town.
The Black Country Unite Against Fascism (UAF) is organising the action in response to the EDL's planned march on the town centre on February 7.
More than 700 supporters of the EDL are expected to show in protest at a planned mosque by Dudley Muslim Association.
The UAF says its members will assemble in Stone Street Square from 11am, and remain positioned in the town centre until the EDL leaves.
It has the support of Dudley Trades Union Council and the Muslim community.
In a statement, Black Country UAF spokesman Jerry Langford said: "The EDL are coming to Dudley to ferment hatred, division and stir up racism.
"Wherever the EDL have turned up, we have seen drunkenness and fighting with random attacks on property, places of worship and people of ethnic minority background."
Four years ago violence erupted when the EDL last held a protest in Dudley.
Bricks and metal security fences were thrown at riot police, while several shops and cars in the town centre were damaged.
Mr Langford said: "When they came to Dudley in 2010, the mosque, a Hindu Temple and several Asian people were attacked.
"We are all, including the Muslim community united in our condemnation of the massacre of innocent people in France but we firmly reject the Islamophobia and racism of the EDL and call upon every one, people of faith, those with no religion, trade unionists and those who believe in a just and tolerant society to stand firm with us in the Square on February 7 to send a message to the EDL that not only are they not welcome here.
"We are Dudley, united against racism and we will not give the EDL the freedom of our town."
Martin Lynch, joint secretary of Dudley National Union Teachers, said: "It is hugely important in the current climate that we all, people of different faiths and none, stand together against hate and division in our community."
Following trouble at an EDL protest in Birmingham in July last year 50 people were jailed, with the final sentences given last week.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "West Midlands Police is aware that the English Defence League plan to stage a demonstration in Dudley on February 7.
"At this stage of planning, there are no confirmed locations or times however the force is working with those involved to plan for a safe and peaceful event for all concerned."
