Thousands attend anti-racism rally in Belfast following recent disorder

Thousands of people took to the streets of Belfast earlier for an anti-racism rally.

It follows rioting and attacks on homes and businesses this week dubbed as "racist thuggery" by the Northern Ireland Secretary.

Speaking to Downtown/Cool FM News, one demonstrator explained why they decided to take part in the protest in solidarity with ethnic minorities. They said, “I think it’s really important that Belfast does this because no-one should live in fear and I don’t think anyone has the right to tell people where they belong.”

Another said, “It’s concerning that businesses have been attacked just because of the colour of the skin of the person that owns the shop. If they are protesting against people taking our jobs, then why are you attacking businesses…people that are trying to make a safe future for themselves and their families here”.

There was also a smaller counter demonstration at Belfast City Hall.

The unrest and rioting in parts of Northern Ireland this week was sparked by anger over a serious knife attack in North Belfast.

The suspect, a Sudanese man, appeared in court earlier in the week.