For the fifth time, hundreds turned out outside Bell Hotel in Epping on Sunday to demonstrate against the use of the building for the accommodation of asylum seekers. The protest, one in a rising tide of such protests across the UK, was attended by an estimated 500 anti-immigration protesters who faced off against a sizeable police force and a counter-protest group advocating refugee support.
Essex police, supported by officers from several forces, sustained barriers between the two groups. Officials indicated the high police presence was required due to repeated acts of violence and community disturbance since the initial protest on July 13.
Demonstrations erupted after an asylum applicant was charged with allegedly kissing a 14-year-old girl. The suspect, 41-year-old Hadush Kebatu from Ethiopia, has refuted the charges and is being held in jail. Protesters carried England flags, banners associated with Reform UK and right-wing parties, and chanted with slogans such as “Protect our kids.”.
Counter-demonstrators organized by Stand Up to Racism carried placards saying “Care for refugees” and “Don’t let the far right divide us,” with “Refugees are welcome here” being some of the chants heard during the rally. The organization estimated about 700 people showed up to stand with the rights of refugees.
Three people were arrested: two of those involved in the anti-hotel protest and one counter-protester. Although tensions were running high, Essex police welcomed the event’s peacefulness overall. “I am pleased that today has passed off without incident,” reported Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow.
The same happened over the weekend at a hotel in Diss, Norfolk, when approximately 400 anti-immigration and 250 pro-refugee protesters clashed. Two were charged with public order offenses. Another protest was attended by a handful of people at London’s Canary Wharf.
In a letter to The Guardian, asylum seekers condemned what they described as “harmful stereotypes,” urging understanding rather than judgment. “There are both good and bad individuals in any group,” the letter read. “We’re here to rebuild our lives, not exploit the system.”
Locals in Epping expressed mixed sentiments. One woman, who asked not to be named, indicated residents were angered at what they felt was inadequate vetting and hearing of their issues, but did not approve of being branded “far right.
Right-wing activists such as Homeland and White Vanguard were in attendance, but some area protesters disavowed their presence. Counter-protesters like Joshua Bailey were emphasizing the importance of compassion and conversation. “Refugees are running from tragedy. We require a positive approach and space for nuance,” he said.
