Edinburgh Protestors Mobilize Against Trump’s State Visit This Week

A national protest is set to take place in Edinburgh on October 5, 2023, in opposition to the state visit of Donald Trump to the United Kingdom. Organized by the Stop Trump Coalition, the rally will be held at The Meadows at 18:00, aiming to draw attention to the perceived negative impacts of Trump’s policies on issues such as racism and Islamophobia. This coalition has previously mobilized significant public demonstrations, including protests outside the US Consulate in Edinburgh earlier this year.

The group’s statement emphasizes that they view Trumpism as promoting divisive politics. They are urging both the UK and Scottish governments to take a firmer stance against Trump, arguing that the current British government is “appeasing” an authoritarian political agenda. Members of the coalition believe that a majority of Britons oppose Trump’s visit, highlighting a disconnect between governmental actions and public sentiment.

During this state visit, Trump will engage with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at locations including Windsor Castle and the Prime Minister’s residence at Chequers. Discussions are anticipated to focus on a new nuclear power investment deal, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. This visit marks Trump as the first US president in history to receive a second full state visit to the UK.

The timing of this visit is particularly sensitive for Starmer, who is currently navigating controversies related to the sacked US ambassador Peter Mandelson and his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Trump is likely to avoid any mention of the Epstein scandal during his discussions.

In anticipation of potential public outcry, the police and UK government are expected to take measures to keep Trump away from protesters. Nevertheless, the Stop Trump Coalition plans to extend its protest to Windsor, aiming to highlight issues such as nationalism, colonialism, and xenophobia associated with Trump’s administration.

The coalition issued a statement reflecting on the recent far-right protests in London, asserting the need for a counterbalance to such movements. They stated, “There is a clear and growing link between the international far right in the US and UK… Trump’s politics have encouraged this resurgence of hate in both countries.”

The coalition has called for widespread participation in its protests, asserting that their efforts are not solely about Trump but about the broader values and direction of the UK. They argue that Starmer’s willingness to host Trump sends a dangerous message during a time of rising racism in the country.

On the same day as the Edinburgh protest, a national demonstration against Trump is also scheduled to occur in London. This event will feature prominent speakers, including Jeremy Corbyn, Zarah Sultana, and George Monbiot, and will be hosted by comedian Nish Kumar.

The Stop Trump Coalition has been approached for additional comments as the protests approach. With public sentiment at play, the upcoming days will reveal the extent of opposition to Trump’s visit and the implications for UK-US relations.