Thousands of people gathered in Newport to participate in a spectacular event commemorating the 185th anniversary of the Chartist uprising. The march, held annually, pays tribute to the 22 Chartists who lost their lives in 1839 when soldiers clashed with them, marking a significant moment in Britain’s journey towards democracy.
On Saturday night, nearly 2,000 individuals carrying burning torches paraded through Newport in remembrance of the historic struggle by working people advocating for voting rights. The march culminated at Westgate Square, the very site where the fateful confrontation occurred. Before the march commenced, attendees enjoyed live music and a captivating fire display at Belle Vue Park.
The event featured speeches by key figures such as Shavanah Taj, the General Secretary of TUC Cymru, and actor Julian Lewis-Jones from House of the Dragon, who paid tribute to the Chartists’ legacy. The procession was led by a symbolic “Charter,” representing the original People’s Charter of 1839, which demanded voting rights for workers.
At Westgate Square, the reading of the Riot Act was reenacted, echoing the events of 1839 and highlighting the sacrifices made by the Chartists in their fight for democracy. Organized by Our Chartist Heritage, the Newport Rising Festival aims to preserve Newport’s democratic history and educate future generations about the struggle for voting rights.
Eoghan Mortell, chair of the festival committee, expressed delight at the community’s engagement with Newport’s Chartist heritage and highlighted the importance of remembering the sacrifices made for democratic rights. The festival also included various activities like Welsh folk and rock band performances, the Chartist Convention at St. Woolos Cathedral, and the official Chartist Commemoration at the cathedral cemetery.
The Newport Rising Festival serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of the quest for democracy, as people worldwide continue to advocate for and protect democratic principles. The robust turnout at the event reflects a growing interest in Newport’s Chartist history, with the recent opening of the Newport Rising ‘Hub’ further cementing the city’s place in the democratic narrative.
As the Newport Rising Festival concludes, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who fought for democratic ideals and serves as a source of inspiration for contemporary struggles for justice and equality. The event encapsulates the resilience and determination of those who have paved the way for democratic freedoms, resonating with audiences both young and old.