Reclaim Australia and Canberra Anti-Racism Network members face-off outside

An Anti Reclaim Australia rally at Newcastle Foreshore in July this year. One is labelled a rally against “racism, hate and bigotry”, while the other is protesting the proposal for a mosque at Buchanan, with organisers saying it has nothing to do with racism.

But anti-racism protesters carried signs reading “No to racism, no to fascism” and called Reclaim Australia demonstrators “Nazi scum” and “bigots”. Social Alternative’s Rebecca Barrigos, who organised the larger and louder opposing rally, said she and people like her felt obliged to speak out against racism.

People are being urged not to take part in rival rallies in Melbourne over a proposed mosque as anti-Islam group Reclaim Australia takes to the streets around the country following the Paris terrorist attacks.

“While we respect the rights of individuals and groups to protest, we remind those involved that they must do so peacefully and in compliance with the law”, he said.

Originally published as Anti-racism rally not fearful of Reclaim Australia by Newcastle Herald.

A strong contingent of police kept the two groups separated as the protesters stood about 30 metres apart yelling at each other. “Only then, as a united front will we defeat the radicals”.

A number of Reclaim Australia supporters have been arrested at anti-Islam rallies in Sydney and Melbourne, including one man who allegedly tried to graffiti a war memorial.

“Watch the events today in Melton Vic, watch the media reports and see the truth for yourself – the state has sent in its social contaminants to stir up what would’ve been a peaceful public rally and series of public speeches”, the post said.