Karen Adam: There is a fundamental clash of values within the UK

A huge part of Scotland’s identity is social justice, inclusivity, and compassion. They guide us, shape our decisions, and reflect the kind of country we continually strive to be.

Yet, as we look across the political landscape of the UK, it becomes increasingly clear that these values are not universally prioritised.

I have written before of how the political direction of Westminster is increasingly out of step with the progressive ideals that so many of us in Scotland hold dear.

This divergence is more than a simple political disagreement, it represents a fundamental difference in our society and our place in the world. Recent events in the UK have highlighted this growing divide.

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The rise of far-right ideologies, fuelled by online disinformation, has sparked violence and unrest. These developments are not isolated incidents – they are symptoms of a deeper malaise within the political culture that Westminster now seems to foster.

This is not the direction Scotland has chosen, nor is it one that aligns with the spirit of our nation. In contrast, Scotland has consistently demonstrated a commitment to progressive values.

We saw this vividly during the Kenmure Street protests in Glasgow, where an entire community came together to prevent the detention of two men by immigration enforcement. It was an act of solidarity that transcended political affiliations, bringing together people of all backgrounds in a powerful display of compassion and collective action.

This was not just a protest; it was a statement about the kind of society we want to live in – a society that stands up for its most vulnerable and refuses to be complicit in policies of division and exclusion.

Police surround a van on Kenmure Street in Glasgow

The Kenmure Street protests were a microcosm of Scotland’s broader political identity. In that moment, we saw the best of who we are – people who are willing to stand together, to fight for justice, and to protect one another. It reflected the progressive spirit that defines us, a spirit that is increasingly at odds with the policies and rhetoric emanating from Westminster.

As we reflect on these events, it is impossible to ignore the growing sense that Scotland’s future lies on a different path. The decision to forge our path as an independent nation is not just about political power – it is about the kind of society we want to build. It is about ensuring that the values we hold dear are the ones that guide our future. The current political climate in the UK, with its drift towards authoritarianism and right-wing populism, stands in stark contrast to Scotland’s progressive aspirations.

This divergence is not just a difference of opinion, it represents a fundamental clash of values. While Westminster pursues policies that marginalise the vulnerable and stoke fear and division, Scotland remains committed to a vision of social justice, equality, and inclusivity.

But independence is not just about distancing ourselves from the policies of Westminster. It is about embracing the opportunity to fully realise the potential of our progressive values. It is about creating a society that reflects our collective aspirations – a society where social justice is not just a slogan, but a reality for all.

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Independence offers us the chance to build a Scotland that is truly reflective of who we are – a Scotland that leads with compassion, that prioritises the wellbeing of its people, and stands as a beacon of hope and progress in an increasingly uncertain world.

However, this vision will not materialise on its own. It requires more than just political will; it requires the active participation and support of the people of Scotland. Public support is not just a nice-to-have, it is the foundation upon which any legal or political strategy for independence must be built.

Without a clear and sustained majority in favour of independence, any efforts to achieve it – whether through legal means or political negotiation – will struggle to gain the necessary momentum.

This is where the role of grassroots movements becomes crucial. The Kenmure Street protests were a powerful reminder of the impact that collective action can have. It was a moment where ordinary people came together to stand up for what they believed in, and it made a difference.

As we have seen in Glasgow and across Scotland this past week, the coming together of our communities to protest and reject this far-right message is powerful. This same spirit of grassroots mobilisation is essential if we are to build the public support necessary for independence.

It is through these movements that we can engage with our communities, address their concerns, and inspire them to see independence not just as a political goal, but as a shared vision for a better future. We need to bring back public meetings and begin nationwide tours of independence-focused discussions. Not just politicians but key activists too, just as we had during 2014.

In addition to grassroots efforts, we must also be vigilant against the threat of disinformation. The rise of far-right movements in the UK has been fuelled by a deliberate campaign of misinformation designed to sow division and fear.

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In Scotland, we must resist these influences and work to create a media landscape that is grounded in truth, integrity, and respect for all. An independent Scotland must prioritise the protection of a free and fair press, with diverse perspectives.

I know we recognise that the journey toward independence is not easy. For decades we have seen stalwarts work incredibly hard. We stand on their shoulders. The path to independence has been a long one, but it is a path that is worth taking, for it leads to a future where our values – our commitment to social justice – can be fully realised.