STUC 2014 St Andrew’s Day March and Rally

November 28th 2014

STUC 2014 St Andrew’s Day March and Rally

November 28th 2014

The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) Annual St Andrews Day March and Rally takes place Saturday 29th November,

Speaking ahead of the March and Rally, Grahame Smith, STUC General Secretary said,

"The eyes of the world have been on Scotland this year. The Commonwealth Games and the Referendum generated unprecedented media attention on our nation and people.

"The engagement of young voters in the political process has been particularly encouraging. Our young people, who through increased social awareness are clear that they want to be educated and live and work in a society that puts social justice at its heart and is free from racism.

Extracts from contributions from supporters

“Scotland’s civic ethos is an inclusive and progressive one, which helps ensure that welcome is extended to all who come here. But we must always be on our guard against racism and prejudice when it does rear its head, and the STUC is to be commended on sending out that unequivocal message.” Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland

“The STUC’s St Andrew’s Day March is an opportunity for the labour movement to look back at what we have achieved in the fight for racial equality here in Scotland. But as we remember the significance of battles won, we need to be united together in the fights we still face.” Anas Sarwar MP, Acting Leader of the Scottish Labour Party

“Though it has been such an extraordinary year, we should not be complacent about the direction of politics. Scotland is far from free of racism, and we must address the big challenges we face.” Patrick Harvie MSP, Co-convener of the Scottish Green Party

“Whether prompted by skin colour, religion or nationality, discrimination is completely unacceptable in modern Scotland. Yet, while we’ve come far, Scotland’s not there yet. Simply put, we cannot be complacent and we mustn’t ease up.” Ruth Davidson MSP, Leader of the Scottish Conservatives

“We will build a truly liberal, open, welcoming Scotland. A Scotland where individuals are judged on their character, not their colour; on their person, not our prejudice. A country which shows no tolerance to narrow-mindedness and where equality stands front and centre.” Willie Rennie MSP, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats

Ends

For further information contact Helen Martin 0141 337 8100

Notes to Editors

The march will assemble at Glasgow Green (Green Dyke Street entrance from 10.30am marching off at 11.00am to a rally at Glasgow Film Theatre at 12 noon.

March Route; Glasgow Green, MacLellan Arch, Saltmarket, Glasgow Cross, High Street, Ingram Street, Montrose Street, Cochrane Street, George Square South, St Vincent Place, St Vincent Street, Hope Street, Bath Street, Douglas Street, Sauchiehall Street, Rose Street and Renfrew Street.

Speakers include; June Minnery STUC President, Humza Yousaf, Minister for External Affairs and International Development, Anas Sarwar, Acting Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Colin Clark, CRER, TRUE Colours Anti-Racism Project, Selma James and Aamer Anwar, Human Rights Lawyer