Swastika painted on side of convenience store condemned by Stand Up to Racism Edinburgh

Stand Up to Racism Edinburgh is set to hold an online rally on March 20 after being appalled by a Swastika painted on the side of a USave store on the corner of London Road and Easter Road.

The Nazi symbol appeared on Sunday.

It is unknown whether this was a deliberate attack on the shop by organised fascists after other racial attacks took place over the past year in the capital.

Last July a group of youths carried out a series of violent attacks and racist abuse against Asian shop workers in Niddrie.

And a number of attacks on those perceived to be of Chinese origin have taken place since the pandemic began.

Swastika on the USave store on the corner of London and Easter Road

As a result Stand Up will be holding an online rally on March 20 from 1-2pm - followed by a UK-wide online event at 5pm.

Speakers at the Edinburgh event include: Professor Geoffrey Palmer; Councillor Lezley Marion Cameron; MP Owen Thompson.

A motion will also be raised by Councillor Cameron, calling on Edinburgh City Council to confirm support for UN Anti-Racism Day of Action on March 20.

Stand Up say that the council must take a lead in challenging all aspects of racism.

Steve West, Stand Up to Racism Edinburgh, said: "People will come together across the globe, united against racism, Islamophobia, antisemitism and fascism; and stand in solidarity with our residents, and people across the world to convey a powerful, global message of zero tolerance to racism.

“We need this event to be attended by people across every section of the community in Edinburgh and the Lothians, to leave the racists in no doubt that their actions are unacceptable to the vast majority of residents."

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