10/06/2026
Statement on demonstrations in Scotland following a knife attack in Belfast.
Rev Sarah Brown, convener of the Public Life and Social Justice programme group of the Church of Scotland, said: “Those who took to the streets yesterday created an atmosphere of intimidation.
“There is nothing to be gained from such actions.
“The knife attack in Belfast was clearly a terrible and frightening incident.
“The Church of Scotland stands in solidarity with the victim and our prayers are with them, their family and friends and the wider community.
“In the face of such violence our response should be a calm and resolute determination to see justice done, according to the law.
“Jesus called us to love our neighbour and to welcome the stranger.
“At a time of growing political extremism, it is even more important that the rights, freedoms and protections of people from religious and racial minority groups are respected.
“All our neighbours living in Scotland should be able to feel safe and welcome here and be able to call it home.”
