On Saturday 28 March, central London became the focal point for one of the largest demonstrations in recent memory, as tens of thousands of people gathered for an anti–far-right march organised by the Together Alliance. Marching through the heart of the city from Park Lane to Trafalgar Square, participants united around a shared message: solidarity over division, love over hate, and hope in the face of growing fear.

The mobilisation came in the wake of last year’s “Unite the Kingdom” demonstration, organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. In contrast, the Together Alliance march represented a broad coalition of voices and communities. Trade unionists stood alongside environmentalists, community activists marched with faith leaders, and artists, athletes, entertainers, and elected representatives joined together to present an alternative vision rooted in unity and collective strength.

Organisers estimated that as many as 500,000 people attended the march, a powerful testament to the movement’s reach. Among them were members and activists from ATD Fourth World, who proudly joined the Together Alliance to contribute to the growing chorus of voices calling for change.

Building momentum: a day of reflection and creativity

The energy of the march was already building over the preceding weeks, when activists with lived experience of poverty gathered for two banner-making workshops, one in Guildford and the other in ATD’s London centre. These spaces became more than just a place for preparing materials: they were forums for conversation, reflection, and connection.

Participants shared their concerns about the current social climate, particularly the increasing pressure on everyday rights across the UK. Many spoke about the tangible impacts of recent welfare cuts and changes to the benefits system: policies that have disproportionately affected people living in poverty. These discussions highlighted a growing sense that our everyday rights are not only under-defended, but actively being eroded.

Yet alongside these concerns, there was also a palpable sense of optimism. Attendees reflected on the momentum of the Together Alliance and the significance of standing together across different struggles. By sharing stories, offering support, and recognising our interconnected challenges, participants left the workshops with a renewed sense of purpose — and banners that carried both protest and hope into the streets the following day.

A march defined by solidarity

For those who took part, the march itself was an overwhelmingly positive and energising experience. ATD activists, allies, and team members joined the Amnesty International UK bloc, carrying banners not only for themselves but also on behalf of ATD members who could not attend in person.

There was a strong sense of collective presence: of walking not just as individuals, but as part of something larger. The atmosphere was vibrant and inclusive, and we chanted, sang, laughed, and connected as we all moved through the city together.

For many, this was their first experience attending a demonstration. Several ATD activists attending for the first time described the day as both meaningful and empowering. What might have once felt intimidating became, instead, a space of belonging and shared purpose.

Looking ahead: sustaining the movement

As the crowds dispersed at Trafalgar Square, the sense of achievement was clear. But so too was the awareness that this moment was only the beginning: the challenge now lies in sustaining the energy generated on the day.

The relationships built, the conversations started, and the solidarity expressed must continue to grow beyond the march itself. With the next UK general election rapidly approaching, it is crucial to remain engaged, vocal, and connected.

The message that echoed through the streets of London remains urgent: that unity is stronger than division, that hope can counter fear, and that collective action has the power to shape a more just and compassionate society.

Click here to watch a video made by ATD’s members about why we marched: Video about why we marched