The Bradford campaign continues to grow

posted by: Nick Lowles | on: Friday, 13 August 2010, 13:22

While we wait for a decision from West Yorkshire police as to whether they will listen to the people of Bradford and ban the EDL march, the Bradford Together campaign is not letting up. Earlier today we sent out an email to those people who had signed the petition online stressing that whatever the Chief Constable's decision the Bradford initiative would continue.

"It has become too big for us to stop now," organiser Paul Meszaros told supporters. "Next week we will be asking you for your thoughts about how we can keep this campaign going so we can build on the goodwill and enthusiasm that has been generated."

This comes after a petition of 10,700 names was handed into the Home Office on Wednesday. "Collecting 10,700 signatures in one city in three weeks is an amazing achievement and reflects the widespread fear of the consequences of the EDL march," say Paul. "Those of us who live in this city remember 2001 and there is no appetite for more trouble."

Plans are also under way to organise a Peace Vigil on Friday 27 August in Bradford city centre if the police refuse to listen to the views of the people they are supposed to serve.

"The vigil will be an opportunity for local people to show their opposition to the EDL's message of hate in a dignified and positive manner," Paul told HOPE not hate. "We will not rise to the EDL provocation on the Saturday and so we will stay away from the city centre but we want to give people the opportunity to register their support for our Bradford – one where everyone can live in peace, regardless of race or religion."