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A change in Britain changed recently. Similar to urban centers across the UK, the capital has seen protests staged by the extremist groups previously, but the atmosphere was distinct. More than a massive crowd filled the city. A significant portion of them protested calmly. But a group assaulted the authorities responsible for keeping citizens secure.

These events we saw didn’t come from nowhere. For far too long, our politicians and analysts have failed to denounce the increase of hatred in the nation, opting to dabble in divisive messaging and harmful language themselves.

Now, these divisive approaches of politics have overflowed on to city centers. Ethnic and religious communities have expressed fear and a vast number in the capital and across the country are appalled. For our leaders, inaction is not sufficient. It is now necessary to speak out and declare: this is not who we are.

A Global Pattern

Let's join forces to take on the reactionary populists who are using financial anxieties, the atomisation of contemporary society and a eroding confidence of political and media institutions – a phenomenon observed in nations throughout Europe and, naturally, in the US.

The White House occupant and his coterie have perhaps done the greatest amount to stoke tensions of polarizing, far-right politics globally in modern times. During his arrival to the UK on his initial official trip, he had intentionally employed anti-immigrant sentiment, racism and “otherness” as an electoral tactic.

Today, the strategies noticed from modern US administration seem unchanged. Scapegoating minorities, expelling American nationals, sending troops to the public areas of diverse cities. Such measures go beyond being against western values – they’re typical of the dictator's manual.

The Need for Honesty

It is clear the national position of being pragmatic on the global scene and seeking to preserve a strong ties with the leader of the most powerful country in the world. Confronted by a revanchist Russia, Europe’s security feels at risk now than at any time since the WWII. And the threat of escalating American taxes is ongoing.

Yet it remains crucial to guarantee our unique partnership entails being transparent and truthful with one another. On occasion, this implies being a supportive critic and speaking truth to power – and making it evident that our opposition to the strategies of anxiety and polarization.

Demonstrating the White House why it is vital he support Kyiv, not Putin. Advocating for taking the environmental crisis with urgency. Appealing to the leader to stop the trade conflicts that are damaging international commerce apart. And applying influence on him to do much more to halt the military campaign on the region, as only he has the authority to stop repeated and infringements of global norms to a halt.

Global Hub

It is also vital to inform the administration and his allies to halt disparaging and denigrating our great capital city. The city remains a world-class example, no matter how much he attempts to pretend otherwise. London is inclusive, dynamic and less dangerous than every US state in terms of violent crime. Maybe that explains unprecedented figures of Americans are making London their home the capital.

The leader and his supporters often talk about the significance of free speech, painting a picture of the nation as a oppressive state where censorship means our rights are under threat. That is far from the actual situation. Now, I’m sure many Londoners will voice their opinions to remind President Trump and advocates that we will not be split by groups which seek to sow fear.

Our city is committed for London to persevere as a defender against hate, and be a symbol a positive example. Our strength lies in resilience in our diversity, not division. And that we cherish our progressive principles firmly, rather than hiding them in embarrassment.

Looking Ahead

Following previous official trip six years ago, the manner we discuss politics has become pessimistic, increasingly polarized and dangerous. But the capital's essence and spirit are as inclusive and optimistic as ever – because diverse metropolis isn’t going anywhere. Individuals that seek to create discord will find a capital committed to uphold its open-minded ideals more fiercely previously.