Porto Sees Divided Protests: Anti-Immigration vs. Anti-Racism Demonstrations Unfold

No Incidents in Porto as Anti-Immigration and Anti-Racism Protests Take to the Streets

On Saturday afternoon, two significant demonstrations unfolded in Porto, drawing attention without any unusual encounters or incidents. One protest, organized by the far-right party Chega, was against immigration, while the other, supported by various anti-racism associations, stood in solidarity with immigrants. The two marches concluded approximately 600 meters apart, with one at Avenida dos Aliados and the other at Praça da Batalha.

A Display of Flags and Voices

Participants in the anti-racism march carried flags from various countries along with improvised signs denouncing discrimination, fascism, and racism. In contrast, the Chega supporters primarily waved Portuguese flags, displaying placards against illegal immigration and chanting "Portugal is ours".

The Chega demonstration was announced in mid-October, prompting at least 28 organizations to plan a counter-protest, including anti-fascist, anti-racist, and feminist groups, alongside supporters of the LGBTIQA+ community and housing rights.

Marches with Symbolic Routes

Both organizations strategically chose symbolic locations for their marches. The Chega rally commenced at Praça Marquês do Pombal, traversing through Santa Catarina and Passos Manuel streets before reaching Avenida dos Aliados, where Chega leader André Ventura delivered a speech. Despite arriving nearly an hour late, the march concluded shortly after.

Simultaneously, the anti-racism march set off from Campo 24 de Agosto, a plaza honoring the liberal revolution of 1820, and proceeded to Praça da Batalha, with chants condemning racism and fascism, advocating for housing for all, and calling for the resumption of a suspended immigration petition.

Attendance Discrepancies

Media reports estimate that hundreds participated in both demonstrations. André Ventura claimed victory over turnout numbers upon his arrival, although he could not provide specific figures. The Chega organization anticipated around 900 attendees, with many traveling from various cities, while police estimated 700 participants in the anti-fascist rally.

At the Chega protest, Ventura highlighted that it was the first manifestation in Porto demanding control and reduction of immigration, citing Rui Moreira, the city’s mayor, who expressed concerns about extreme insecurity in the historic center, despite police denying claims of increased violent crime. Ventura reiterated his view linking immigration to crime, referencing statistics showing that 10% of Portugal's residents are immigrants, with 30% of detainees being foreign nationals.

In response, Joana Bernardes from the Students for Palestine Defense movement, participating in the anti-racism protest, labeled the Chega group as fascist, racist, xenophobic, and homophobic, asserting that the real insecurity stems from the hate incited on the streets.