The event was organised once again by Aberdeen Trades Union Council,
this year in partnership with #WeAreAberdeen, a group which has been set up to
combat growing racism and intolerance in the wake of the Brexit campaign.
Carrying colourful banners and placards, the marchers were
upbeat and joyful as they strode along the aptly named Union Street behind the
stirring music of the Granite City Pipes and Drums Youth Band.
The rally at the Gallowgate heard uplifting stories from a
number of speakers, many of whom had come from different countries to make
their homes in the North East of Scotland. All paid tribute to the warmth of
the welcome they had received from the people in Aberdeen City and
Aberdeenshire. However some had also
experienced intolerance and racism reminding us that we must always be vigilant
and challenge such behaviour wherever we see it.
 |
| Kate Ramsden |
She said, “Some of us come from further afield than others and some have
made their homes here for much longer than others.
“But whether we moved to the city because of the clearances or moved
here to work or came here fleeing poverty, war or oppression, we have all made
our homes here and we all have a part in creating the vibrant community that is
the North East of Scotland.
“And we should remember that St Andrew, the Patron Saint of
Scotland was himself a migrant and an immigrant. So it’s fitting that we should
celebrate his day with this event which celebrates all our diverse communities.”
More on the Rally and the speakers to follow.
More on the Rally and the speakers to follow.
To see more photos from the event go to our Facebook Album.