THE organisers of a rally planned for this weekend have renewed their calls for people to come out and celebrate the contribution immigrants make on a daily basis to Irish society.
United Against Racism is calling on the public to join them in Guildhall Square on Sunday at 12.30pm.
The PSNI has confirmed that a counter-protest is being planned for 1pm but will be in a separate location and will be closely monitored by police officers.
United Against Racism spokesperson Davy McAuley said Sunday’s event is a chance for the real voice of Derry to be heard.
Mr McAuley said, “The relentless grind of online conspiracy and misinformation is taking its toll on the good people of Derry who abhor racism, love their neighbours and are compassionate towards refugees.
“Our event gives voice to those who are not represented by social media loudmouths and dodgy, far right grifters trying to make a name for themselves in the style of the English fascist Tommy Robinson.
“The vast majority of people in Derry are opposed to racism, far right extremism and those who are creating a climate of fear by spreading deliberate falsehoods to whip up tension.
“Every day our lives are improved by the presence of people from other parts of the world who have made Derry their home. From hospitals to schools, shops and restaurants to the safety of our streets, immigrants make Derry a better place to live.”
Mr McAuley pointed out that Pope Francis will be laid to rest on Saturday with Catholics around the world gathering to mourn the passing of their spiritual leader.
“People who claim to practice Christianity should reflect on his strong anti-racism, his support for refugees and his challenge to the powerful over their endless wars.
“The late Pope once said ‘You cannot be a Christian and be a racist’. Those who claim to be protecting ‘ Christian values’ by targeting migrants are disrespecting the legacy of Francis and damaging our community.”