On September 13, 2025, a significant event unfolded in central London involving far-right extremism. Tommy Robinson, also known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, a known criminal with a history of anti-immigrant and Islamophobic views, orchestrated the “Unite the Kingdom” rally, which attracted a crowd of over 100,000 supporters.
While not implying that everyone attending the rally shared racist beliefs, it was evident that individuals with such inclinations were present. The rally featured speakers advocating for the expulsion of immigrants and the restriction of religions to Christianity only. Notably, Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest individual, endorsed the rally through a video message, urging the audience to “fight back or die.” Musk’s statements, coming from a South African immigrant who previously worked illegally in the US, were not just provocative but also perilous.
The surge in support for Tommy Robinson is not an isolated incident but aligns with a global trend of far-right populism, fueled in part by figures like former President Donald Trump. Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric on immigration, religion, and nationalism has normalized extremist ideologies, paving the way for movements like Robinson’s to gain traction in the UK.
During the rally on September 13, Robinson was observed waving a flag bearing Trump’s name and leading chants in support of the former president. This symbolic gesture highlighted the ideological affinity between the two figures. For British women opposing Robinson’s agenda, this alliance of hate reinforces their determination to resist authoritarianism and misogyny.
Amid the wave of nationalism and hatred, around 5,000 counter-protesters, including the Women’s Block coalition, stood against the tide of intolerance. Rejecting Robinson’s claim of safeguarding women and girls, the Women’s Block represents a long-standing tradition of British women confronting fascism and far-right ideologies.
The Women’s Block stands against the narrative that safety is achieved through targeting immigrants or restricting religious freedoms, emphasizing that true protection stems from unity, justice, and equality, rather than authoritarianism disguised as patriotism. Robinson’s rhetoric of protecting children and defending British culture masks a politics of fear and exclusion, as evidenced by previous reports linking participants in racist incidents with domestic abuse.
The counter-protest on September 13 was a statement of resistance against attempts to silence and manipulate identities for divisive agendas. Standing alongside trade unionists, anti-racist activists, and ordinary citizens, the protesters advocated for an inclusive society that celebrates diversity and unity. British women have historically risen against far-right movements, advocating for rights and equality for all individuals, irrespective of background.
While Tommy Robinson claims to represent the nation, the Women’s Block stood as a voice of conscience on that day, reaffirming their commitment to equality and justice. The historical record will reflect the stance taken by those who resisted the spread of intolerance.