A group of women has come forward to expose how anti-immigration street patrols, framed as protective measures, are being exploited to perpetuate violence and harassment. Their accounts reveal a disturbing pattern where individuals with histories of domestic abuse—including physical attacks—lead these patrols, using them to target and profile men of color under the guise of community safety. The testimonies highlight a troubling link between personal abusive behavior and organized vigilantism, raising serious questions about the true motives behind these groups. The stories underscore how vulnerable communities are caught in the crossfire of ideological movements with deep-rooted patterns of discrimination.
Seven women share their stories to make people aware of patterns of violence behind anti-immigration street patrol movementDuring their relationship, Lisa’s ex-partner was controlling. He kept her at home where he was emotionally and physically abusive towards her, including once attacking her with a machete.These days, he runs protests outside houses of multiple occupancy that he claims are housing asylum seekers. He coordinates groups of men to patrol the streets of his town, claiming to protect women but often using these patrols to profile and target men of colour. Continue reading...