Tens of Thousands Rally Behind Tommy Robinson in Controversial March Amid Surge in Immigration Debates Across UK
London witnessed a politically charged day as tens of thousands gathered for an anti-immigration and anti-Islam rally led by controversial activist Tommy Robinson. A counter-demonstration by “Stand Up to Racism” also took place nearby, reflecting the nation’s deepening divide over immigration, nationalism, and freedom of speech.
Main Highlights:
- Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
- Location: Central London, including Westminster and South Bank
- Key Figure: Tommy Robinson (Stephen Yaxley-Lennon)
- Counter-Protest: “Stand Up to Racism” organization
- Police Deployment: Over 1,600 officers, including 500 reinforcements from other forces
Mass Demonstration Led by Tommy Robinson
- Thousands gathered, waving Union Jacks, St George’s Cross, and even MAGA hats.
- Robinson promoted the event as a “Unite the Kingdom” march — a protest against immigration and celebration of free speech.
- The demonstration also served as a tribute to Charlie Kirk, a U.S. conservative activist reportedly shot dead earlier this week.
“Hundreds of thousands already pack the streets of central London as we Unite as one for our freedoms,” – Tommy Robinson on X
Slogans & Messages
- Placards read: “Send Them Home”, “We Believe in Tommy”, and “Take Back Free Speech”.
- Some attendees voiced support for stricter immigration controls and opposition to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Counter-Protest: ‘Stand Up to Racism’
- A nearby protest rallied against Robinson’s march, emphasizing tolerance, inclusivity, and anti-racism.
- The group condemned the march as promoting anti-Muslim rhetoric and xenophobic nationalism.
Police Response & Security Measures
- Metropolitan Police deployed 1,600+ officers across London.
- Other major events on the same day (football matches, concerts) added pressure on law enforcement.
- Police warned they were prepared for potential offensive chanting or hate incidents, based on prior demonstrations.
“We’ll ensure lawful protest rights, but we’ll be robust where offences occur,” – Commander Clair Haynes
Context: Growing Anti-Immigration Sentiment in the UK
- Immigration has overtaken economic concerns as the top political issue in Britain.
- Over 28,000 migrants have crossed the Channel in small boats this year alone — a record.
- Visual displays of nationalism — English flags on roads and buildings — have sharply increased.
Supporters frame this as patriotic pride, while critics call it a coded message of hostility toward immigrants.
Reform UK Distances Itself from Robinson
- Despite their rise in polls, Reform UK, Britain’s largest anti-immigration political party, avoided association with the rally.
- Tommy Robinson’s criminal record and controversial past remain a political liability.
Key Takeaways
- The London protests underscore deepening divisions on immigration, identity, and free speech.
- With general elections looming and immigration dominating headlines, such events may shape the political future of Britain.
- The balance between lawful protest and hate speech remains under scrutiny.
