Nazi march is not about free speech, it’s about bloody ignorance

I have lived on the north Cricklewood-Golders Green border since 1999. It’s one of the most cosmopolitan areas in north-west London, has diverse mix of backgrounds, art, culture, food, literature and also has superb transport links.

From Likya, the finest Turkish restaurant to Carmelli’s – the best place to get a bagel after a night out – Golders Green is one of the most unique and vibrant places in London.

The far-right march  scheduled to take place this weekend does not represent the views of the people who live, work and are part of Golders Green’s DNA. Personally it’s a complete farce and does not connect with what Golders Green is about.

When my local bank manager said he would have to close the bank early on a Saturday to avoid any trouble I questioned why he was going to close. He rightly said I don’t want any of my customers to be caught up in any violence or to have any contact with those thugs.

I have never seen or experienced any indifference or prejudice amongst the communities in Golders Green.

We are warm, affectionate and law-abiding citizens. My Jewish brothers and sisters are lovely people. I have many Jewish friends, I don’t label them and say “you are my Jewish friends” for the sake of it and, vice versa, my friends don’t say “you are our token black friend”.

Our friendship is based on their personality, generosity and what they are all about. I think that extends to what everyone does in Golders Green.

I assume the far-right protesters are disgruntled about their situation in life and have no one else to blame. Therefore, their intention to hijack a peaceful community and ethnic group in their eyes is the logical solution. To hold the march on the Sabbath was beyond disrespectful.

The Met should be given powers to ban these types of marches on the spot and glad they finally acted. I respect and endorse free speech but this is far from free speech – it was an intended carve up for a bunch of racists to splat their unorthodox views to a bunch of law abiding innocent people, not just Jewish but from all walks of life.

Regardless of our ethnicity, race, sexuality, class or social background, we have the opportunity to succeed and make a difference so those who failed or unable to get a peg up in life should not blame any ethnic group for their failure. Anything can be achieved in Britain. The sky’s the limit. We have the opportunity and chance to fulfil those dreams and aspirations make those dreams. 

To blame Jewish success is a lazy argument and bloody ignorant in my book. I am glad the police banned the march and common sense prevailed.