Day 27: The Battle of Lewisham - When a Community Said NO to Racism

Hey Family,

Today, we're stepping back to 1977 to explore a crucial moment in anti-racist history: The Battle of Lewisham. This event marked a turning point in the fight against far-right racism in Britain and demonstrated the power of community resistance.

On 13 August 1977, the streets of Lewisham in South East London became the stage for a dramatic confrontation between far-right racists and anti-racist protesters. The day would go down in history as a pivotal moment in British anti-fascist activism.

Key points about the Battle of Lewisham:

1. Context: The National Front, a far-right, racist organisation, planned to march through Lewisham, an area with a significant Black population.

2. Community response: Around 4,000 National Front marchers were met by a counter-demonstration of over 10,000 anti-racist protesters.

3. Diverse opposition: The counter-protesters included local residents, trade unionists, and activists from various left-wing and anti-racist groups.

4. Police tactics: It marked the first time police used riot shields on the UK mainland.

5. Outcome: The National Front march was effectively stopped, and the day was seen as a victory for anti-racist activists.

What makes the Battle of Lewisham significant is that it represented a community coming together to say a resounding "No" to racism. It wasn't just a protest - it was a community defending itself and its values.

The events of that day had lasting impacts. It boosted the confidence of anti-racist campaigners and dealt a blow to the National Front's attempts to intimidate multicultural communities. However, it also led to debates about public order policing and the right to protest.

It's important to note that while the day saw violent clashes, many participants emphasise the sense of unity and purpose among the counter-protesters. The Battle of Lewisham became a symbol of resistance against racism and fascism.

As we reflect on the Battle of Lewisham, consider these questions:

1. How did this event change the landscape of anti-racist activism in Britain?

2. What parallels can we draw between the community response in Lewisham and more recent anti-racist movements?

3. How can we apply the lessons from the Battle of Lewisham to current efforts to combat far-right extremism?

The Battle of Lewisham reminds us that when communities unite, they can stand up to hatred and win. It's a powerful example of how local action can have national significance in the fight against racism.

I'm eager to hear your thoughts in the comments. How do you think events like the Battle of Lewisham have shaped the way we resist racism in Britain today?

Blessings,

KK