Thousands expected in Caernarfon for Welsh independence march

Thousands are expected to hit the streets of Caernarfon to march for an independent Wales today.

Following on from May’s All Under One Banner Cymru (AUOB Cymru) gathering in Cardiff, Caernarfon will host its own event as the Welsh independence campaign gathers momentum.

Campaigners have promised a festival atmosphere, saying it was a chance for those who are passionate about independence, and for those who are ‘indy-curious’ and want to find out more, to come out to share ideas, learn and have some fun.

The crowds will start gathering from around 11am, and the march will start at 1pm from Victoria Dock Car Park. It will then make its way to Balaclava Road, along Northgate Street on to Palace Street, around the castle and finish up on Castle Square where a large rally will take place.

‘Taking off’

Crowds will hear a diverse group of speakers, from Scottish comedian and political activist, Hardeep Singh Kohli to community activists, to poets and musicians.

“The continual crimes committed against the people of Wales are legion,” Hardeep Singh Kohli said.

“From the assault on their ancient and beautiful culture, the attempted crushing of the Welsh language over the last two centuries to more recent events like the dropping of Goldie Lookin Chain by their record label, while bowed our Celtic Cousins have never been broken.

“It is time for Wales, like Scotland, to become a nation restored. From Flint Castle to Chepstow in the south, it is time for the land of song to once again sing their own song.”

Gwyn Llewelyn, one of the organisers of the march, said Welsh independence was “really taking off” as an alternative to the “stale politics” of Westminster.

“I would say to anyone who wants a better future for their family and community to join us at the march for independence in Caernarfon, ask the hard questions and get involved in shaping our country’s future,” he said.

Also entertaining the crowds on the town’s Maes will be singer, Dafydd Iwan.

“There is a long tradition of rallies on the Maes in Caernarfon, and I’m thrilled that the Independence Rally is happening there, under a non-political and cross-party banner, which reflects the positive new spirit that is growing in Wales these days,” he said.

AUOBCymru is a Welsh grassroots movement taking inspiration from the All Under One Banner movement in Scotland. It is supported by a number of groups who share the aim of securing an independent Wales, and is not aligned with or affiliated to any political party.