Over 80,000 Londoners are expected to make a stand against racism
this weekend at the UK's largest anti-racist music festival, Rise:
London United, in Finsbury Park on Saturday 8th July 2006.
Headline acts at the free event include US rap artist Common, The
Wailers, Graham Coxon, Buzzcocks, Roy Ayers, Duke Spirit, plus Killa Kela,
DJ Kayper, MC Inja & Mentor Kolektiv on the main stage. The festival
includes six different music stages and a comedy marquee.
Mayor Ken Livingstone said: "If you hate racism and love London, join
us in Finsbury Park this Saturday to make a stand against racism. Work to
combat racism and celebrate our diversity is a permanent, daily part of my
role as Mayor of London, but Rise: London United is one visible part of that
fight, and one that gives us all the chance to unite and enjoy the range
of experiences and cultures that give our city its character.
"Rise: London United sends a very clear message that at every level
racism is not welcome in this city."
Lee Jasper, Director of Equalities and Policing for the Mayor said: "London
is the most ethnically diverse city in Europe, with 300 languages spoken
and over 14 faiths practiced. However, we have not defeated racism; even
here in our multicultural capital there is no room for complacency. The mayor's
administration have a zero tolerance approach to racism in London. Racism
is a dead end and music is one of the most powerful ways of demonstrating
that fact."
Rise is organised by London Mayor Ken Livingstone to combat racism and celebrate
London's diversity, in partnership with the National Assembly Against Racism
and TUC South East Region (SERTUC).
Denis Fernando, National Assembly Against Racism said: "National Assembly
Against Racism is proud to be a partner in the Mayor of London's Rise: London
United festival. The whole of London should unite against racism and racist
attacks. All Londoners should stand up against the recent wave of racist
attacks in Barking and Dagenham. We welcome the anti-racist gains that are
being made, and in London attacks are down overall - at a time when racist
attacks are rising nationally - but there are still massive challenges in
the fight against racism. The Rise festival showcases the best thing about
London: its diversity which is the key to its success as a world class city
and a beacon against racism."
Megan Dobney of SERTUC said: "Rise: London United will be a great family
fun day out - celebrating London's rich cultural diversity. But the event
also sends a clear message to racists and fascists that the Mayor, anti-racist
organisations and trade unions will challenge racism and discrimination where
ever we find them. Rise: London United embodies our zero tolerance to
the evil that is racism and our commitment to make London a fascist free
zone."
At Rise there are also six other music stages: Big Cuba Fiesta, African
Village, Urban stage, Mela stage, Crescent stage and DJ Dub Bus, reflecting
the wide range of music from around the world that can be heard in the capital.
Comedy on the day will be provided by a talented line-up including the BBC's
3 Non Blondes' Ninia Benjamin, Shazia Mirza, Nathan Caton and Kojo
all keeping the crowds chuckling in the comedy tent.There will also be a
children's play area, fair ground, food and drink, exhibitions and
arts and crafts.