On July 27, 2024, I had the unique opportunity to attend Tommy Robinson’s ‘Uniting The Kingdom’ rally in London. This event, in my view, marks a significant moment in the British cultural landscape, one that heralds what I call the ‘Awakening of the working classes.’

Tommy Robinson is no stranger to controversy. He prefers addressing the unpolished realities of society’s forgotten underbelly over a manicured politically correct diluted rendition of the facts. His language and optics may not always be palatable, but to understand his true objectives, it’s crucial to move beyond these superficial aspects. Millions feel that Robinson has given a voice to those who have otherwise been discarded by society.

This event marked my first interaction with Tommy Robinson and his team of citizen journalists, known as ‘Urban Scoop.’ My work usually focuses on the US political and cultural landscape, and my knowledge of Tommy Robinson was limited to negative media portrayals mixed with positive ones largely by the alt-media scene. As a working-class lad myself, I can tell you, these people are proud, loyal, and strong, with respect being earned rather than given. This is why sweeping generalisations about this segment of society are easily dismissed. Since time immemorial, the underclass and working class have been treated with the utmost contempt and snobbery by the middle-class virtue signallers and the puppet masters at the top of the totem pole.

Their bonds are forged not through racial or religious identities but through a robust sense of community, respect, and support. This unity is grounded in shared British values. If this reality were more widely acknowledged, the narrative of demonisation would falter. The powers that be employ divide-and-conquer tactics, turning us into tribal beings fixated on identity conflicts, thus preventing us from uniting and addressing the core issues. The movement I witnessed broke this mould.

Approaching the event, I was uncertain of what to expect. If the propaganda online were to be believed, I could have encountered anything from a neo-Nazi rally to a Care Bear convention. Given my limited understanding of the subject and movement, I knew it was imperative I witness the reality firsthand and form my own opinion. The night before, I conducted a brief recce at Trafalgar Square, where the stage was not yet erected. Another stage was being assembled in front of the National Gallery for the ‘Summer on the Square’ festival, causing some initial confusion.

The next morning, after collecting my press credentials, I proceeded to the Royal Courts of Justice to join the march. I was struck by the diversity within the crowd — every colour, creed, class, and gender (two) were represented, all united on a rare British summer day to express their love for their country and fellow countrymen.

As a journalist, I aim to remain an objective observer, which is why Tommy Robinson and his team reached out to independent media for fair representation. Despite the natural distrust of the media, I was met with curiosity rather than hostility. With my credentials, I explained my purpose, and barriers swiftly fell. I was welcomed warmly and regaled with stories of long journeys and past events. It became clear that these events are not merely protests but social gatherings, creating significant memories for attendees, who proudly recount their experiences back in their communities.

The march commenced with a boisterous start as eager marchers jostled to catch a glimpse of Tommy Robinson. Order was soon restored, and the march, led by Tommy Robinson and Laurence Fox, proceeded under tight security. The crowd meandered through The Strand, attracting curious onlookers and some supportive cheers. Upon reaching Trafalgar Square, Tommy Robinson and others took to the stage, addressing an estimated 100,000-strong gathering. After approximately 20 minutes, the entire procession had arrived at the square. With every available space filled, I observed a few children, no older than 12, perched on bus stops in the distance, striving for a better view. The scene evoked historic moments like VE-Day or a Coronation. Flags waved as attendees were present not just for Tommy Robinson but for British values, unity, and patriotism. This rally was about looking forward rather than dwelling on past failures.