On September 13, 2025, a significant far-right extremist event unfolded in central London. Tommy Robinson, also known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, a convicted criminal with a history of anti-immigrant and Islamophobic views, spearheaded the “Unite the Kingdom” rally, attracting a crowd of over 100,000 supporters.
While not all attendees at Robinson’s rally may be labeled as racists, it is clear that the gathering drew individuals with racist inclinations. Speakers at the event advocated for the repatriation of immigrants and the restriction of religions other than Christianity. Surprisingly, Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest individual, expressed support for the rally through a video link, urging the audience to “fight back or die.” Musk’s endorsement, despite being a South African immigrant who initially worked illegally in the United States, was not only provocative but also perilous.
The increasing backing for Tommy Robinson reflects a broader global surge in far-right populism, largely fueled by figures like President Donald Trump and his inflammatory rhetoric on immigration, religion, and nationalism. Trump’s language has normalized extremist dialogues, paving the way for movements like Robinson’s to gain traction in the UK.
During the September 13 rally, Robinson was spotted waving a Trump flag while leading chants of “Trump, Trump, Trump!” This symbolic act highlighted the ideological alignment between the two individuals, showcasing their shared beliefs. The alliance between them has only bolstered the determination of British women to resist Robinson’s agenda and combat authoritarianism and misogyny.
In response to this wave of intolerance, around 5,000 counter-protesters, including the Women’s Block coalition, took a stance against Robinson’s divisive ideology. This demonstration was not merely a reaction to a single event but a continuation of a longstanding tradition of British women opposing fascism and far-right ideologies throughout history.
The Women’s Block stands firm against the notion that safety can be achieved through discriminatory policies. They emphasize that genuine protection stems from unity, justice, and equality, rejecting the authoritarian tactics masked as patriotism by figures like Robinson.
Robinson’s rhetoric of “saving our children” and “defending British culture” is a façade to instigate fear and exclusion. The movement exploits caring language to justify exclusionary policies, but women see through this manipulation, understanding the real threats of poverty, domestic violence, and underfunded public services, not from migrants seeking refuge.
The Women’s Block march on September 13 was a powerful declaration of resistance against attempts to silence them and co-opt their identities for divisive purposes. It symbolized unity with trade unionists, anti-racist advocates, and ordinary citizens who envision a welcoming and united Britain, free from prejudice and division.
History demonstrates that whenever the far right emerges, British women have stood up against it. From fighting for voting rights to reproductive rights, they have been at the forefront of advocating for an inclusive society that values every individual regardless of their background. On that day, the Women’s Block represented their conscience, making a lasting statement about which side they stand on in the fight against extremism.