Guernsey Press

Anti-Trump protest to be 'family affair'

NEARLY 200 people have expressed an interest in the anti-Trump protest and it is hoped almost all of them will show up at the event on Monday.

Published

Peter Sherbourne, speaking on behalf of the group organising the event, emphasised that it was not an anti-American protest.

It is taking place at the Sunken Gardens from 5pm until 7pm at the latest and aims to make a stand to oppose President Donald Trump and his stance on immigration, Muslims, the LGBTQ community, climate change, women's rights and civil liberties.

The date also marks the UN World Day of Social Justice and is the date a UK petition requesting there should be no state visit for the US president will be debated in Parliament.

Those behind the protest say they are concerned about the impact that Trump's policies will have on the lives and freedoms of American citizens and they had their wholehearted support.

Organisers were keen for this to be an inclusive, family-friendly event.

Free face-painting will be available from 5.30pm-6.30pm and there will be live music, with acoustic sets from James & Jon and Savage Sons.

Short addresses on human rights, climate change and civil liberties will also be given, with possibly some poetry too.

Mr Sherbourne said it was also doing this for the younger generation and their futures.

'It is a family affair, there is face-painting, music, it is good-natured.'

'It is an opportunity for Guernsey people to come and share this and celebrate differences.'

Ava Schiavetta Winter, who is one of those on the organising committee, said: 'I think that when the leader of the free world, a hugely privileged position, speaks and acts in a way that is sexist, homophobic, racist and xenophobic, it normalises it. Therefore it trickles down to everyone, not just in the USA.

'As a teacher and a parent, I don't want the next generation growing up thinking it's OK to ridicule others or not see them as equals. Therefore, what Trump stands for indirectly affects so many aspects of our society that it is important to stand up and show our community that how he speaks and acts is not OK, and that we promote tolerance and want to celebrate diversity. That is moving us all forwards. The younger generation aren't scared of others and don't want to build walls, they want to come together.'

Fillers Sandwich Bar will be open during the event for refreshments.

Those wanting to support the event but are unable to attend can sign the petition online, which can be found on its website: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/guernsey-protest-against-trump-celebrating-diversity-tolerance-1.

Further information can be found on its Facebook page: Stop Trump – Guernsey Protest: Celebrate Diversity & Promote Tolerance.

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