"We must resist their dangerous politics"
Birmingham United Against Racism is calling on communities to unite in defiance of Reform UK’s dangerous and divisive agenda.
On March 28, 2025, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK is set to hold its largest rally yet in Birmingham.
The event at the Utilita Arena has sparked strong opposition from anti-racist campaigners, community groups, and trade unions.
Birmingham United Against Racism will be protesting against the party.
Reform UK, founded by Farage in 2018, has shifted from a Brexit-focused movement to a far-right platform that scapegoats migrants and minorities.
Critics say the party’s populist messaging diverts attention from corporate greed and systemic inequality.
Bob Moloney, of Stand Up To Racism, an organiser with Birmingham United Against Racism, said:
“Reform UK presents itself as a party for the people, but in reality, it is a political tool for the rich and powerful, using fear and scapegoating to deflect from the real causes of economic hardship.
“History teaches us that whenever far-right movements gain momentum, it is working-class communities, migrants, and the most vulnerable who suffer the most.
“We stand together to reject their dangerous agenda and defend the rights of all.”
Birmingham has a long history of standing against racism and fascism. Organisers say the upcoming Unity Rally will send a message that the city will not be a platform for hate.
Jagwant Johal, of the Birmingham Race Impact Group, said:
“We are sending a clear message: Birmingham will not be a platform for racism and division.
“This city has a proud legacy of resisting racism and fascism—from confronting the National Front in the 1970s to standing against injustice today.
“Birmingham is, and will remain, an anti-racist city built on unity, solidarity, and justice.”
Opponents of Reform UK say the party’s policies harm working-class people.
Reform UK advocates tax breaks for the wealthy while proposing cuts to essential services. It has also been criticised for climate denialism and plans that would affect disability rights.
John Cooper, of the Birmingham Climate Justice Campaign, said:
“Farage and Reform UK wrap themselves in populist rhetoric, but their policies expose them for what they really are—a party for the privileged few.
“While they claim to stand with ordinary people, they advocate for tax cuts for the rich while slashing £50 billion from essential services like the NHS and education.
“On top of this, their reckless climate denialism puts future generations at risk.
“They are not anti-establishment—they are the establishment, looking after their own while workers and communities pay the price.
“We must resist their dangerous politics and fight for a just and sustainable future.”
Dalbir Singh, known as Tabla Jedi, said: “As a Sikh, my heritage is deeply rooted in the fight for the oppressed.
“Our ancestors—Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus from the subcontinent—stood shoulder to shoulder against fascism in both World Wars.
“Today, I am proud to carry that legacy forward, performing at the Unity Rally alongside friends from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, united in our stand against hate.”
Disability rights activist Kim Taylor said: “Reform UK’s £50 billion cuts would be devastating for disabled people like me.
“It’s not just numbers on a budget sheet—these cuts will mean longer NHS waiting times, fewer carers, and less support to live independently.
“Many of us already struggle to access the healthcare, benefits, and services we need, and this will push even more disabled people into poverty and isolation.
“We’ve fought for decades for our rights, but these cuts would undo that progress overnight.
“Reform UK claims to stand for ordinary people, but their policies will leave disabled communities abandoned and forgotten.”
The Unity Rally will take place on March 28, beginning at the Utilita Arena at 6:00 pm.
The march will move to Centenary Square, where speeches and cultural performances will highlight Birmingham’s diversity and resistance to far-right extremism.
Myki Tuff of Friendly Fire Band said: “We cannot sit back when racists march into Birmingham.
“Reggae is built on the principles of peace, love, and unity.
“When groups like Reform UK seek to divide us, we must respond by coming together—standing as one in the fight for justice and equality.”
Organisers say the event will feature a range of artists, including the Friendly Fire Band, tabla virtuoso Dalbir Rattan Singh, Banner Theatre, dub poet Moqapi Selassie, and bhangra dancers from Gabhru Panjab De.
Birmingham United Against Racism is urging communities to stand against Reform UK’s agenda.
Mukhtar Dar from Kings Heath United Against Racism said:
“We must come together, not just in protest, but to uphold the values of equality, justice, and solidarity.”
“This is not just about rejecting hate—it is about defending the society we want to build.
“A society where no one is vilified for their race, religion, or background, where diversity is celebrated, and where communities stand strong against division.
“Reform UK seeks to fracture our unity, but we will respond with an even louder message: we are proud of our city, our people, and our shared future. In unity, we will always be stronger than hate.”
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