The McChuills Music Bar in Glasgow, a venue known for its anti-fascist stance since 1993, was targeted by a group of up to 40 right-wing ultras on Saturday, September 7, 2024. The incident occurred as tensions flared in the city, coinciding with a pro-UK rally that was backed by notable far-right activist Tommy Robinson at nearby George Square.
In response to the attempted attack, McChuills posted on Instagram, affirming their commitment to being a place "where everyone is welcome, no matter who they support, who they love, who they worship or how they vote," with a clear stance against fascism and racism in all forms. The bar reassured patrons that no one was harmed during the incident and invited guests to attend their evening music events for free, stating, "Come on down, have a good night and stand in solidarity with all of us here. McChuills. Anti-fascist since 1993."
Eyewitness accounts reported the far-right group clashing with police and attempting to forcefully enter the venue while throwing bottles. Independent media platform Skotia shared footage depicting the chaos, which echoed sentiments seen in various UK cities amidst ongoing protests and riots involving far-right groups and anti-immigrant demonstrations over recent months.
The attempted storming of McChuills highlights the growing trend of violence associated with far-right movements within the UK, prompting organizations like Love Music Hate Racism to announce plans for a nationwide concert series aimed at promoting unity following a wave of anti-immigration riots that have plagued the country since late July 2024. This series is planned as a direct response to the violence instigated by misinformation and extremist rhetoric that has proliferated in recent news cycles, particularly surrounding the tragic stabbing incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Merseyside.
The situation remains tense with ongoing counter-protests and heightened awareness regarding the actions of far-right factions in Glasgow and beyond.