Anti-racism: Scotland march and rally

Nearly 2,000 people marched through Glasgow, Scotland on Saturday on an annual St Andrew's Day anti-racism march and rally.

Community groups, politicians and trade unionists joined forces to call for an end to racism at the march against racism organised by the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC).

The campaigners gathered to "remind people of the dangers of allowing prejudice and discrimination to go unchallenged". With support coming from Prime Minister David Cameron and Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond and Labour's shadow Scottish secretary Ann McKechin who joined in the march.

STUC General Secretary Grahame Smith said “Racism and discrimination have no place in our society. It is vital that we continue to challenge racism in all its guises and we have to ensure that Black Minority Ethnic workers are fully involved in our ‘There is a Better Way’ campaign to challenge any discrimination against black workers as the cuts take effect.”

Political leaders including Scotland’s First Minister, Alex Salmond, sent messages of support to the marchers. First Minister Salmond said: “Days like this, when people of all races and faiths come together, demonstrate that Scotland is an inclusive nation, where all can flourish, irrespective of race, faith, belief or place of birth.”

Prime Minister David Cameron also gave his backing to the marchers: “We all have a role to play, and we must all work together to bring about the change needed. Events like today’s anti-racism events play an important part in changing people’s attitudes.”

March speakers included lawyer Aamer Anwar and Geoffrey Palmer of Edinburgh and Lothians Racial Equality Council.

Speaking ahead of the rally, Scottish Labour leader Iain Gray called on every Scot to "challenge racism wherever it surfaces".

He said: "We can use the law but that is not enough. It is up to all of us to confront it in everyday life; in the workplace, in the playground, at a football stadium or when with friends and neighbours."