To: John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council, and Members of Birmingham City Council

We are calling on Birmingham City Council to refuse any licence or permission for Britain First to use council-owned land or public spaces, to protect community cohesion in one of the UK’s most diverse cities on Saturday, 20th June 2026

Birmingham is one of the most diverse and multicultural cities in the United Kingdom. This diversity is a source of strength, pride, and unity for our communities. However, many residents were deeply concerned by last year’s decision to allow Britain First to march through the city and to occupy a civic space such as Centenary Square, complete with staging and amplification. For many, this did not reflect the values of inclusion and respect that Birmingham stands for.

Granting access to prominent public spaces risks legitimising voices that are widely seen as divisive and harmful to community cohesion. There is also concern about the involvement of individuals such as Paul Golding, who has convictions for hate-related offences and breaches linked to terrorism-related restrictions. Many residents believe Birmingham should not provide a platform for messages that may contribute to division within our communities.

This petition is not about restricting lawful expression. It is about how public spaces and council resources are used, and ensuring they reflect the values of the city and its people.

We are calling on Birmingham City Council to:

Refuse any application for the use of council land, facilities, or resources by Britain First
Prioritise the safety, well-being, and cohesion of all Birmingham residents
Engage with community leaders when making decisions that impact shared public spaces
Birmingham belongs to all of us. Its public spaces should reflect unity, not division.

“Yours faithfully,
Charlie Williams,  Co-founder - The Windrush Movement UK - Subsidiary - Windrush National Organisation 

If you believe Birmingham should stand for inclusion and community cohesion, please add your name and share this open letter

 
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