Cardiff race rally opposes immigration 'blame game'

Unions, equality groups and politicians have taken part in a rally in Cardiff opposing race discrimination ahead of May's European elections.

It follows a conference in the capital city on Friday promoting race equality.

Equalities Minster Jeff Cuthbert told delegates race hate crime is under-reported in Wales and government action to tackle the issue is on the way.

Saturday's march saw supporters gather at City Hall calling for people to "stand up to racism".

It was organised to follow the UN day against racial discrimination as well to coincide with the run-up to elections to the European Parliament in May.

Migration could be high on the agenda for many voters and the rally is being held to oppose what organisers call the "blame game" against immigrants using freedom of movement in the EU to seek work in Britain.

Unison Wales regional manager Dominic MacAskill said the union was encouraging members to "stand up to racism and say no to scapegoating of immigrants, no to Islamophobia and yes to diversity".

Groups involved include Unite Against Fascism, trade unions and Labour and Plaid Cymru politicians with support from the Muslim Council of Wales and Islamic Society of Wales.

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael also addressed the rally.

"This is not just a demonstration against racism, which is a growing threat in many parts of Europe, but a celebration of the positive tradition of politics in Wales," he said.

"At a time when there seems to be a rise in negative attitudes such as Islamophobia and the scapegoating of immigrants, we need to assert our pride in being a truly international city where people with roots across the world can live and work together."