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Protesters danced through the streets in a ‘Discobedience March’ in protest at the cost-of-living crisis.
It was part of a ‘Day of Hope’, in solidarity with the national Enough is Enough campaign.
The rally, which took place in Ulverston on Saturday, October 1, included music, poetry, an information stall and the protest dance, culminating in speeches at the Market Cross.
Among the speakers were Regional Organiser for the RMT, Craig Johnston, Mai Harrison, of Barrow Trades Union Council and Paul Jenkins of Unite Against Fascism.
One of the organisers, Cat Moffat, said: “This was a great show of support for the campaign to fight the cost-of-living crisis and offer alternatives to the broken system.
“Together we have the power to create a better world.”
Enough is Enough is calling for a real pay rise, energy bills to be slashed, decent homes for all and for the super-rich to be taxed.
Ulverston author Zosia Wand read a community poem, written jointly by protesters. Its chorus went: “Community! Humanity! Solidarity! We have a choice. We have a voice.”
Organiser Louise Martin said: “The response has been so positive – we’ve had people talking about unionising their workplace for the first time, inspired by the movement.
“People from all walks of life have told us they’re saddened by what’s happening to our country.
“The mood was one of hope, though.”
Among the dancers was a group from the Communications Workers’ Union (CWU).
One of them, Natalie Hare, Industrial Relations Rep for the CWU at Royal Mail, said: “On strike today, picket line this morning – then dancing in the streets. Enough is Enough. Solidarity!”
Former secondary school teacher and business owner Harriet Cooper, who helped organise the event said: “The atmosphere has been electric – we have been delighted with the response.
“We pulled this together with a very small team of volunteers in 20 days – we are really chuffed and thank everyone for their solidarity!
“Huge thanks to all the speakers today – they were superb and it was an honour to hear the message of hope they delivered.”
The Day of Hope continued into the evening in the Hope and Anchor pub, with performances, poetry, live music, DJs and a craft session in the beer garden, all to raise money for Ulverston Food Project.
