Features / protest
Taking a stand: Bristol’s inspiring protest scene
Engaging in activism is an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals and drive meaningful change during your time as a student in the city.
With Bristol’s rich history, diverse population and vibrant communities, you are always close to people actively working for progress.
Anti-racism campaigning
is needed now More than ever
Much political activism arises from Bristol’s history in the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved African people.
As a key port city, many landmarks and monuments bear the legacies of enslavement, driving activists to respond.
A notable example is the toppling of the Edward Colston statue in 2020 during a Black Lives Matter protest.
All Black Lives Bristol, a city-wide group, organised the campaign following the death of George Floyd.
To support Black and anti-racism activism, seek out groups like the Black South West Network, which advocates for racial equality across Bristol and the South West.
Or you can contact Journey for Justice, a group that has been organising anti-racism campaigns across Bristol for over a decade.
University-affiliated student groups also offer a practical way to engage in activism, providing a community of campaigners who balance advocacy with their studies.
The University of Bristol’s SU includes groups fighting racism, such as the Black Students’ Network, the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Network and Black in STEM society.
Along with similar groups, UWE carries a SpeakUp pledge. As part of the pledge, a form can be found on the UWE website that students can use, if needed, to report racist behaviour.
Additionally, both universities observe Black History Month, which is celebrated in October. BIMM also celebrates the month by highlighting Black alumni and successful musicians – keep an eye on your university website for updates and events.
Each institution has its own union for student groups and clubs. Check their websites and attend freshers’ events to learn how to get involved.
The 77-year anniversary of Nakba saw many pro-Palestine protestors march through Castle Park
Women’s rights
Women’s rights groups are plentiful in Bristol for women and non-binary students.
Whether through peaceful protests, demonstrations or gatherings, you will find opportunities for participation.
A citywide group for gender equality and women’s rights, Bristol Women’s Voice (BWV) was formed in 2013 after a consultation confirmed women in Bristol felt excluded from decision-making.
BWV consistently works to alter this perception and empower women.
As part of their mission, BWV holds women and non-binary-only sessions at the Vassall Centre and the Redcliffe Hub.
With over 4,000 members and subscribers, they are one of the largest women’s rights groups in Bristol.
To become a member, visit their website and check for volunteering opportunities, events, and news.
The Women’s Commission is an organisation within Bristol City Council, which has task groups on a range of women-centred issues.
Some focuses of these groups include women’s safety, representation in public life, women’s health, the economy and women-run businesses.
Meanwhile, University-specific groups are available through the UoB Student Union, including Bristol SU’s Women’s Network and societies like Women in Engineering, Women in Law and iFem Soc.
Bristol SU also offers women and non-binary-only swims in the university pool.
UWE women’s groups include WEST (Women in Engineering, Science and Technology) and women-only sports teams for football, rugby, and netball.
At BIMM, the Women’s Society supports all women-identifying students.
International Women’s Day is recognised every year on March 8, so keep up to date with any campaigning or events that your organisation plans around this time.
Additionally, when coming to Bristol as a student, nightlife can play a significant role.
However, as in any other city, some women may be concerned about their safety in Bristol when going out at night.
Bristol Nights has been campaigning against violence towards women on nights out through their ‘It’s not OK’ project.
To get involved, you can lobby nightlife venues to support the project by signing up to the women’s safety charter, supporting businesses that are already participating and sharing Bristol Nights’ graphics on social media.
LGBTQ+
The LGBTQ+ and gender equality scene in Bristol is vast.
From protests, rallies and activities you can get involved in LGBTQ+ events throughout the year.
The Bristol Pride parade takes place in July however a range of Bristol Pride events happen from June onwards.
The Bristol Pride website lists these events and highlights popular LGBTQ+ venues in the city, including the Village, the Phoenix, Old Market Tavern, Old Market Assembly, OMG and the Queen Shilling.
Meanwhile, Bristol Crossroads connects members of the transgender community and allies through meetings promoted on their website. Freedom Youth offers workshops for those aged 11 to 25 to explore gender and sexuality.
Additionally, Bristol SU has the LGBTQ+ Network and Society, BIMM Student Association offers an LGBTQ+ society and UWE’s LGBTQ+ society hosts a variety of social events for students.
Trans rights activists took to the streets to protest against a trans exclusionary rally in April
Climate Activism and Animal Rights
Climate, vegan and environmental activism thrive in Bristol.
Bristol regularly hosts protests by groups like PETA, which focuses on animal rights and opposes animal testing and cruelty.
The Bristol Vegan Events Facebook page is a good way for those with a vegan lifestyle to keep track of relevant protests, events and workshops happening in the city.
Support your cause by staying informed, supporting vegan businesses and sharing knowledge.
Citywide climate activism groups include Bristol Friends of the Earth, which campaigns against planning, development, air quality and more. They host meetings, election hustings and respond to local proposals.
Additionally, Bristol One City is continuing to work to make Bristol a more sustainable city.
Plans to expand Bristol Airport have been met with various protests, such as this one in July
Meanwhile, Bristol SU has the Bristol Vegan Vets society and also has a Climate Anxiety support page.
Both BIMM and UWE also have active vegan societies.
To advocate for positive change, remain vigilant both online and in person.
Many conversations begin online, but Bristol also hosts numerous protests and events.
Help by choosing a sustainable diet and reducing and reusing at university. Campus canteens usually cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.
Disability rights
Disability rights campaigning in Bristol often starts with the Bristol Disability Equality Forum. This group challenges local disability inequality.
Additionally, Crips Against Cuts, a grassroots group with a UK-wide presence, regularly protest government disability cuts with speeches and awareness events.
Bristol SU has a Disability and Accessibility network for support and needs and UWE and BIMM offer similar disability support services to their students.
For more information about citywide activism, visit:
www.bristolnights.co.uk/projects/its-not-ok
www.otrbristol.org.uk/what-we-do/freedom
www.bristolonecity.com/get-involved
This article first appeared in the Bristol24/7 Student Guide 2025
All photos: Rob Browne
Read next:
- International Women’s Day: Talks, performances and more
- Almost 100 Bristolians received compensation after abolition of slavery
- NGO calls for end to animal testing
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