On 28 April, English Defence League thugs attacked a socialist stall in Lewisham, south east London.
The EDL gang smashed up the Socialist Workers Party stall, and assaulted the SWP comrades around it, headbutting 69 year old pensioner Andrew Smith and severely injuring him. Smith, who is Lewisham NUT retired members' secretary, has a possible fractured sinus and torn retina. (For reports see the local press and Socialist Worker.) Despite his injuries, Smith was in Luton the next weekend to demonstrate against the EDL.
During the attack, the EDLers apparently shouted references to anti-racists' rout of nationalists attempting to march through Brighton on 22 April.
What happened in Lewisham shows growing assertiveness on the far right, and raises once again the need for the left, the labour movement and working-class communities to discuss organised self-defence.
Lewisham NUT has called a protest against the EDL, against racism and against cuts:
11.30am, 12 May, Lewisham Clock Tower, Lewisham High Street
A leaflet for the protest is attached below.
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| lewishnutdemo.pdf(138.1 KB) | 138.1 KB |