Anti-fascists gather to oppose Lauren Southern and Stefan Molyneux

  • 28/07/2018

Māori, Muslim, and migrant groups are taking a stand against a pair of far-right speakers bound for Auckland.

A coalition named Love Aotearoa, Hate Racism is forming for a protest in Mangere on Saturday afternoon before Lauren Southern and Stefan Molyneux arrive.

Ms Southern and Mr Molyneux were going to speak at Auckland's Bruce Mason Centre, but the venue's managers cancelled it, citing concerns about health and safety. Anti-fascist groups vowed to blockade the event, and there have been chaotic scenes outside the pair's events overseas.

Organiser Anu Kalotti from the Migrant Workers Association says they peddle hate speech.

"They are spreading an anti-migrant sentiment. They are against women, gay rights, Muslims. That is definitely hate speech and it is racism."

The gathering starts on Kirkbride St at 4:30pm.

"They're quite a diverse range, and they are now together and consolidated and they will not stand for any racism - and we will fight it," says Ms Kalotti.

"We will be absolutely peaceful, but we will fight for the rights of tangata whenua, the rights of migrants, the rights of working people here."

It was previously reported the pair cancelled any public appearances in New Zealand, struggling to find a venue. But on Thursday the promoter said the gig was still going ahead at a secret venue. Ticket holders will be notified via email or text with only 24 hours' notice.

Police in Melbourne billed Ms Southern and Mr Molyneux for the cost of patrolling outside their gig last week.

Newshub.