Green Brigade Release Scathing Police Scotland Statement

Following the detention of some of its members by the police when they attempted to participate in an anti-immigration demonstration in Glasgow over the weekend, the Green Brigade has spoken out. The group of Celtic supporters was stopped in their tracks, kettled by police, and detained for more than two hours when they attempted to disrupt a far-right rally in George Square.
The Green Brigade outlined their concerns about what they perceive to be Police Scotland’s unjust treatment of their members in a statement that was made public on social media. They expressed worry about how, in trying to take part in an anti-racist demonstration, they were singled out for attention. The statement said, “Police Scotland stopped anti-racist Celtic fans from joining an anti-racist demonstration in Glasgow on Saturday.”

The group also discussed what they see as a persistent problem of institutional racism in Scotland, with a focus on Irish Catholics, which they feel continues to affect Celtic fans today. All anti-racists should recognise the rationale behind the mistreatment of Celtics supporters. Irish Catholics are acquainted with racism that is deeply institutionalised in Police Scotland and other institutions, having been among the first immigrants to settle in Scotland, they said.

The statement further thanked those who stood in solidarity with them during the event and called for continued action against far-right groups, stating: “Given our history, Celtic fans will always challenge groups, institutions, or agendas that seek to marginalise and oppress any community.”

The Green Brigade has never been shy about their political stance and often use their platform inside and outside Celtic Park to advocate for social justice issues.

This opinion is linked to a larger criticism made by the group, who think that the way the police have been treating them is indicative of a larger problem with the way that Irish Catholic identity is treated in Scotland.

In addition, the statement expressed gratitude to everyone who supported them throughout the event and urged more action against far-right organisations, saying that “Celtic fans will always challenge groups, institutions, or agendas that seek to marginalise and oppress any community.”