Faith representatives, politicians and community leaders have spoken out against the return of the English Defence League to Dudley Town Centre.
The Bishop of Dudley said: “People in Dudley from across cultures and faiths have lived and worked together for decades. EDL, by their repeated and unwanted visits are only trying to undermine the town with its reputation and relationships. We want as many residents to show we belong together; that Dudley is home for all of us.”
A peaceful, community rally, aimed at celebrating the diversity and unity of Dudley is set to take place on Saturday afternoon. The event, which has been organised by Dudley Borough Interfaith Network and supported by Unite Against Fascism, will take place between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. It will take place at the same time as a rally by the English Defence League, which will be taking place in Stafford Street.
Steve Sparrow, Coordinator of Dudley Borough Interfaith Network, said: “Dudley is a great place to live with warm and welcoming people. This celebration event shows just how futile the EDL’s attempts to separate us are.”
See also Dudley demo assembly details on the UAF website
And “Dudley unites against the EDL”, The Stirrer, 15 July 2010