In a significant community move, two Glastonbury groups, the Glastonbury Independent Alliance and the newly formed Community Solidarity Glastonbury, have joined forces to offer a counter-narrative to the rise of far-right messages in the town.

This initiative comes in response to concerns over the content distributed by The Light, a publication that claims to provide the "uncensored truth" but has been criticised for spreading disinformation, lies, and hate speech under the guise of free speech.

The Light has come under fire for its dubious claims of revealing the "uncensored truth", with accusations of spreading unfounded disinformation and promoting hate speech under the pretence of free speech.

The publication regularly engages in conspiracy theories, linking public figures like Bill Gates to various global plots and promoting climate change denial. It has also published assertions that vaccines are weaponised mind control devices and has even gone as far as calling for modern-day Nuremberg trials for journalists, politicians, and doctors, often referencing conspiracy theories concerning Agenda 21 and the Great Reset.

'The Light' has printed articles by Holocaust denier John Hamer, recommended books by white supremacist Eustace Mullins, and defended radio host Graham Hart, who was imprisoned for anti-Semitic remarks. It has interviewed anti-Islam politician Anne Marie Waters, printed articles co-authored by English Democrats chair Robin Tilbrook and Heritage Party leader David Kurten, and promoted material by Mark Collett, the leader of the fascist group Patriotic Alternative. The founder of 'The Light' has also communicated with the editor of the German far-right conspiracy theory publication Demokratischer Widerstand, linked to the Reichsbürger movement responsible for a failed coup attempt in Germany in 2022.

More recently, it platformed Professor Anthony Hall, who co-hosts a YouTube show which promotes theories that Jews and Zionists have been behind a series of "false flag" terror events, beginning with the Sept. 11 attacks. He has also appeared in a YouTube video that supports "open debate" on the Holocaust.

Emma King (left) and members of the Glastonbury Independent Alliance

Emma King, Secretary of the Glastonbury Independent Alliance and founder member of Community Solidarity Glastonbury, highlighted the severity of the issue, saying: "Many of us in Glastonbury are extremely concerned that these views need to be called out for what they are - hate speech dressed up as free speech.

"The editor of the paper himself, in last month's edition literally said: "the mass economic immigration of alien cultures, leading to mass rape of young children and the consequent unforgivable cover-up". These are not the attitudes which prevail in Glastonbury and they are undermining the very fabric of people's freedom to be themselves without fear of persecution. I myself have been targeted for my support of trans rights and Indra, the Glastonbury mayor, has received death threats."

The response from the Glastonbury community has been to organise an event at the URC on the High Street, running from 2 pm to 7 pm. This gathering aims to offer a space for voices against discrimination and hate speech, promoting a message of inclusivity and respect. "This is an act of solidarity with the many people in town who feel that their views and fears have gone unnoticed. We are here to say that Glastonbury does not stand for hatred and persecution," Emma continued.

Here's a brief overview of what attendees can expect:

• Challenging the 'Cosmic Right' A member from Community Solidarity Stroud District will share insights into the battle against the 'Light' publication's disinformation campaigns. The talk will cover the publication's negative impact on public trust in science and democratic institutions, touching on topics from public health measures to climate change.
• The Light, The Right and the Fight Ahead Stephanie Mathivet will delve into the evolution of the far right, as reflected in the Light newspaper, discussing the threats posed to women and minority groups. She will also offer suggestions for proactive responses to these challenges.
• What is Conspirituality? Liz Williams is set to explore the intriguing overlap between spirituality, paganism, new age beliefs, and far-right ideologies, shedding light on the concept of 'conspirituality.'
• Diversity and Trans Awareness Joni Clark will speak on the vital work being done by the Diversity Trust to support the trans and non-binary community, driven by a commitment to making a positive impact and fostering greater understanding.
• Science Denial – Do Your Own Research Melissa Taylor will address the issue of science denial, discussing its role in diverting attention from collective solutions to pressing global issues like the climate and ecological crises.
• This event promises to be a crucial platform for spreading knowledge and fostering dialogue on important social issues, encouraging the community to stand together against misinformation and hate.

Link to Facebook event: https://fb.me/e/5cS8tg7Yc

With a rising concern over the impact of The Light's publication on the town's social fabric, including reported death threats against local figures and community supporters, this initiative represents a crucial stand against divisiveness. The event welcomes all to join in discussion, with refreshments available for purchase, requesting donations for entry.

• The self-published "truthpaper" is edited by Manchester man Darren Smith who runs a business selling anti-vaccine T-shirts and 9/11 conspiracy merchandise. You can read an interview with him by BBC disinformation and social media correspondent Marianna Spring here.
• There is also a peer-reviewed analysis of The Light and its contents here.