Rally condemns racist slogans

The rally protested at recent racist incidents

More than 100 people gathered at a rally in north Belfast to condemn recent racist attacks in the area.

The Anti-Racism Network organised the event after racist graffiti was painted on houses at Queen Victoria Gardens and Fortwilliam Parade earlier this week.

It told members of the Chinese and Filipino communities to get out. Swastikas and other right-wing slogans were also sprayed.

The police said they were keeping an open mind on who was behind it.

Hate crime

The Anti Racism Network (ARN) said the Filipino community had been targeted for some time but attacks had increased since the President of the Philippines condemned the victimisation in April.

One migrant worker, who did not want to be identified, told BBC Newsline: "I am appealing to all of you out there who are doing this kind of hate crime, that look at us as if we are nothing, as if we are animals.

"We are human beings with families and with a heart and a mind and a soul.

"And we are vulnerable to hurt."

Police have appealed for anyone who witnessed the latest attacks to contact them.