A Morning in Waterloo: Reflecting on the Fight Against Hate Symbols
This morning, I dedicated some time to removing fascist stickers from the streets of Waterloo, specifically along Stamford Street. Armed with cleaning wipes and a determined spirit, I collected a small bin bag filled with these harmful symbols. What I encountered—and learned—offers insight into the prevalence and nature of hate speech circulating in our communities.
Identifying the Stickers: Themes and Messages
The stickers I removed fell into several distinct categories:
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Football Club Affiliation and Anti-Immigration Messaging:
Many bore the insignias of local and national football clubs such as West Ham, South Birmingham, and Sussex, often combined with messages opposing immigration—particularly “Stop the Boats” campaigns. A noticeable number originated from out-of-London areas like Hull, indicating a broader regional reach. -
Nazi Imagery and Threatening Messages:
Among the most concerning were stickers employing Nazi symbols and aggressive language, explicitly promoting hate and intimidation. -
Conspiracy Theories and Anti-Establishment Rhetoric:
A significant portion propagated conspiracy theories—advising to “use cash only,” suggesting a “deep state,” and echoing American far-right slogans like “Drain the Swamp.” These messages aim to sow distrust and perpetuate misinformation. -
Unusual and Frivolous Messages:
Some stickers targeted food delivery drivers, humorously or maliciously, showcasing the strange ways hate symbols manifest in public space. -
Farage’s Toad:
A recurring visual motif was a sticker featuring Nigel Farage’s face as a toad, reflecting political sentiments and caricatures associated with Brexit sentiments.
Encounters and Community Response
While engaged in this activity, I experienced a range of reactions:
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Hostile Comments:
I was heckled twice from passing vehicles. A black cab driver shouted, “Are they paying you to do that?”, and a silver car driver yelled an offensive slur. Such responses remind me of the hostility that occasionally accompanies acts of community cleaning and activism. -
Support and Conversation:
Thankfully, I also encountered four kind-hearted individuals who paused for a chat. Liz, in particular, offered warmth and encouragement, helping ease the initial stress after being shouted at. Their support reinforced my belief in the power of community action.
Reflection and Call to Action
If you’re in London and spot similar hate symbols,