Birmingham councillor and Respect Party leader Salma Yaqoob has given her backing to the We are Bradford event to oppose the racist English Defence League on Saturday 28 August.

Writing on her blog, Salma says:

When the EDL show their face, we should respond wherever possible with a peaceful demonstration of our unity. On 28 August in Bradford, Unite Against Fascism is organising exactly that: celebration of unity and our multicultural society. The event is supported by a wide range of politicians, faith groups and community leaders, and also by my Respect colleagues in Bradford. I hope this event is a successful demonstration that Bradford will not be divided by hate.

And more support is still rolling in for the event from trade unionists, activists and community organisations. Here are some of the latest names:

Kevin Courtney deputy general secretary, NUT (pic: left), Richard Miles branch secretary, Leeds College of Art UCU, Phil Turner NUJ FoC, Rotherham Advertiser, Rusty Ebrahim Hackney Unison shop steward, Paul Brandon Unite rep, Holloway bus garage, Jock Morris chair, Glasgow Campaign to Welcome Refugees, Dave Wilson vice-chair HMRC, PCS North West regional committee, Anatolian Peoples Cultural Centre – London, Elane Heffernan convenor, Hands Off My Workmate (pc), Chris Rafferty, Sefton Unison, James Bartholomeusz, Fabian Society, Taj Mahal Curry Cabaret Club

Thanks as ever to the many other people who have sent us their names over the past few days.

What you can do

>> Read the statement and add your name or organisation to the supporters list
>> Download the national leaflet for the event
>> See the transport page for coaches to the event from around the country

Event details

The We are Bradford celebration of unity and our multicultural society takes place on Saturday 28 August. Assemble: 12 noon at Exchange Square, Drake Street, Bradford city centre. People using public transport should travel in via the Bradford Interchange.