The Green Brigade outlined their concerns about what they see to be Police Scotland’s unjust treatment of their members in a statement that was made public on social media. They voiced worry about how, in trying to take part in an anti-racist march, they were singled out for attention. The statement said, “Police Scotland stopped anti-racist Celtic fans from joining an anti-racist demonstration in Glasgow on Saturday.”

The group also discussed what they see as a persistent problem of institutional racism in Scotland, with a focus on Irish Catholics, which they say continues to affect Celtic fans today. All anti-racists should recognise the rationale for the mistreatment of Celtics supporters. Irish Catholics are acquainted with racism that is firmly institutionalised in Police Scotland and other institutions, having been among the first immigrants to settle in Scotland, they added.

This opinion is linked to a larger criticism made by the group, who think that the way the police have been treating them is indicative of a larger problem with the way that Irish Catholic identity is treated in Scotland.

In addition, the statement expressed gratitude to everyone who supported them throughout the event and urged more action against far-right organisations, saying that “Celtic fans will always challenge groups, institutions, or agendas that seek to marginalise and oppress any community.”

The Green Brigade has never been afraid to voice its political opinions, and they frequently utilise Celtic Park and other public spaces as platforms to promote social justice causes.

They have received equal amounts of praise and criticism, though, which has also made them a contentious figure. Given the circumstances of the demonstration, their targeting during this protest begs serious questions about why they were singled out by the authorities.

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