Fighting racism: a trade union and community response

These racialised communities have faced targeted and organised attacks, such as the recent incident in Rotherham where far-right groups attempted to set fire to a hotel housing asylum seekers while people were still inside. This attack was part of a broader wave of riots across the country, fueled by disinformation and conspiracy theories – and outright Islamophobia and xenophobia. Similar incidents occurred in Sheffield and Barnsley, reflecting a disturbing pattern of racially motivated violence on particular communities and their local businesses.  

While many have organised counter-protests, as the riots subsided, the threat of racial violence in our towns and on our transport systems is still a real concern for the affected communities.  

The underlying factors driving this far-right activity include neoliberal policies that have caused the decline of traditional industries, increased casualisation in the labour market, stagnant wages, and growing inequality in areas such as employment, housing, and overall living standards. These conditions have created widespread insecurity for many communities.

This has affected the entire working class—whether Black, brown, or white.

Understanding these roots helps in identifying an effective response that addresses not just the symptoms but the causes of the far-right. A way to address this is for the Labour government to deliver for working people quickly.

It's also crucial to understand that the recent far-right riots are not something new. Last year, we saw similar attacks in Merseyside targeting asylum accommodation, followed by clashes in Leicester.

Leicester’s community

The unrest in Leicester in 2022, which involved clashes between Hindu and Muslim communities, has been linked to the influence of Hindu nationalism from India, particularly driven by supporters of Indian Prime Minister, Modi. These tensions were exacerbated by disinformation spread through social media and WhatsApp groups, inflaming local disputes and leading to violent confrontations.

In recent years, the far right has become increasingly global, sharing strategies and resources across borders. This isn't new—similar efforts were made in the 1930s when groups tried to form international alliances and there were attempts to revive far right ideas through various European and global networks, although many of these were largely unsuccessful. Despite this, the far right's international cooperation continues to grow today.

Leicester is one of the UK's most racially diverse cities, home to many migrant communities. However in the 70’s rise of the National Front was fueled by fear and xenophobia, particularly in response to the arrival of East African refugees.

We have seen politicians, mainstream media, and online influencers fan the flames of division and hate over the past few weeks and years. The narrative, shaped by these actors, is strongly opposed to the migrant communities which Britain’s labour force relies on.

In Leicester, sections of the migrant community have often been marginalised, particularly in the garment industry, where workers face severe exploitation, including unpaid wages, unsafe working conditions, and excessive working hours. Many of these workers are employed in informal or illegal settings where their rights are systematically ignored.

In response, workers have begun organising protests and strikes to demand better pay and working conditions as part of a broader movement to address systemic issues in the industry.  

Trade union collaboration

Trade unions have partnered with local groups like the Fashion Workers Advice Bureau in Leicester (FAB-L), which specialises in providing free, confidential advice and support to garment, fashion, and textile workers. FAB-L assists with various issues, from administrative support to addressing modern-day slavery, missing wages, workers' rights, health and safety injuries, and the role of trade unions.

Tarek and Fatima, the co-leaders of FAB-L, have deep roots in the community, with family members who have worked in the garment industry. They are well-connected at a local level and possess a thorough understanding of the economic and social challenges these workers face. Their cultural and faith sensitivity ensures they provide the right support at the right time.

Unity over division

FAB-L is a clear example of how trade unions, community groups, and brands can collaborate to combat the exploitation of communities in an area. With the current rise in far-right activity, we need more initiatives that promote unity over division.

Addressing the need for decent work and good jobs, while understanding the specific needs of certain communities, will help us combat racism in the workplace and on the streets, where local faith centres and community organisations are under threat. Racism knows no boundaries—it doesn’t stop at the workplace but continues into every aspect of our daily lives.

This is why trade unions, alongside community organisations, mosques, and migrant centres, must join forces to demonstrate that there is a united front against racism in our communities.

Solidarity is our strength—and we need it now more than ever.