“Jeremy Corbyn’s Glastonbury Speech Ignites Fury: ‘Build Bridges, Not Walls!'”
festival security measures, community outreach initiatives, social responsibility in events
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The Debate Surrounding Security and Inclusivity at Festivals

In a recent tweet, comedian Leo Kearse sparked conversation about security measures at large festivals like Glastonbury, referencing a comment made by Jeremy Corbyn. During his appearance at the festival, Corbyn highlighted a message on a wall that read, "BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS." This statement is typically associated with promoting inclusivity and connection among communities instead of division and segregation. However, Kearse’s response humorously critiques the juxtaposition of the festival’s ideals and the reality of its security measures.

Corbyn’s Message: A Call for Unity

Corbyn’s remarks at Glastonbury are significant as they resonate with a broader movement advocating for social justice and community cohesion. The phrase "BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS" embodies the spirit of unity, encouraging individuals to come together rather than build barriers. This message is particularly poignant in the context of political discourse, where division often prevails. Corbyn’s presence at the festival aligns with his long-standing political principles, promoting inclusivity and challenging systemic issues.

Kearse’s Counterpoint: The Reality of Security Measures

Kearse’s tweet raises a critical question regarding the implementation of these inclusive ideals in practice. He sarcastically asks why the message isn’t literally inscribed on a bridge if it is truly meant to be taken seriously. The comedian’s commentary suggests that while festivals may preach inclusivity, they often implement security measures that contradict these values. Security walls, meant to protect attendees, can symbolize exclusion and fear, contrasting sharply with the call for building bridges.

The Role of Security at Festivals

Security at large events like Glastonbury is a necessary consideration. With thousands of attendees, ensuring safety is paramount. However, the presence of security walls can create an environment that feels more like a fortress than a welcoming space. This contradiction has led to debates about the balance between safety and inclusivity. Many argue that while security is essential, it should not come at the cost of the festival’s core message of unity and acceptance.

Virtue Signaling in Festival Culture

Kearse’s mention of "virtue signaling" touches on a critical aspect of modern social discourse. Virtue signaling refers to the act of expressing opinions or sentiments primarily to demonstrate one’s good character or moral correctness, rather than to effect real change. Festivals, particularly those with a strong political message, can sometimes fall into this trap. While they promote ideals of inclusivity and community building, the reality of their operations may fail to align with these values.

A Call for Authenticity

The interaction between Corbyn’s message and Kearse’s critique highlights the need for authenticity in addressing social issues. Festivals and events that advocate for social change must critically assess their practices to ensure that they truly reflect the values they espouse. This includes examining security measures and considering how they impact the overall atmosphere of the event.

Bridging the Gap Between Ideals and Reality

To genuinely "build bridges," festivals need to create environments that foster connection and community. This could involve rethinking security protocols to ensure they don’t alienate attendees or create an atmosphere of fear. For example, employing community engagement strategies, such as involving local organizations and volunteers in security efforts, can help create a more inclusive atmosphere.

Engaging in Constructive Dialogue

Kearse’s tweet encourages constructive dialogue about the values we uphold in society. Engaging in discussions about the balance between safety and inclusivity is crucial for progress. As society grapples with various challenges, including social justice, it is essential to examine how our actions align with our words. Festivals can serve as a microcosm of larger societal issues, making them ideal spaces for these conversations.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Addressing the concerns raised by Kearse involves a commitment to community engagement. Festivals can benefit from collaborating with local communities to create an inclusive environment. This partnership can lead to innovative solutions that prioritize both safety and inclusivity. For example, involving community members in the planning and execution of security measures can help bridge the gap between festival organizers and attendees.

Rethinking Security Practices

Rethinking security practices is essential for aligning festival operations with their stated values. This could include:

• Enhanced Communication: Providing clear information about security protocols can help alleviate fears and foster a sense of trust among attendees.
• Inclusive Security Personnel: Training security personnel to be more community-oriented can make a significant difference in how attendees perceive security measures.
• Community-Led Initiatives: Encouraging local groups to participate in the festival’s security planning can lead to a more inclusive atmosphere and build trust within the community.
  

  Conclusion: Bridging Ideals and Actions
  

  In conclusion, the interaction between Jeremy Corbyn’s message and Leo Kearse’s critique highlights a significant issue within festival culture: the need for authenticity in promoting inclusivity. While festivals like Glastonbury aim to embody values of unity and community, their security practices can often send contradictory messages. By engaging in constructive dialogue and rethinking their approaches to security, festivals can genuinely embody the principles they advocate. Ultimately, building bridges rather than walls is not just a slogan but a call to action that requires a commitment to inclusivity, safety, and community engagement. Festivals have the potential to be transformative spaces that reflect the best of society; it is crucial that they strive to fulfill this promise.

Corbyn at Glastonbury “Look at the wall that surrounds this festival – there’s a message on it saying ‘BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS’”
Well why isn’t it on a fucking bridge then?
Instead of security walls, surround your carnival of virtue signalling with bridges to let grooming gangs… pic.twitter.com/W79giUk7tp

— Leo Kearse – on YouTube & GB news (@LeoKearse) June 27, 2025

Corbyn at Glastonbury “Look at the wall that surrounds this festival – there’s a message on it saying ‘BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS’”

Glastonbury Festival is known for its music, arts, and a unique atmosphere that brings together people from all walks of life. But it’s also a platform for political statements, and one of the more memorable moments came when Jeremy Corbyn took the stage. He pointed out a message on the wall surrounding the festival: “BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS.” It’s a catchy phrase, right? But it raises some interesting questions about the actual reality of the event and security measures in place.

Well why isn’t it on a fucking bridge then?

Corbyn’s comment, “Well why isn’t it on a fucking bridge then?” is more than just a rhetorical question. It highlights a paradox that many people grapple with in today’s world. How do we advocate for openness and inclusion while also ensuring safety and security? It’s a tightrope walk that many festivals, including Glastonbury, have to navigate. As fans gather to experience the joy of music and community, the reality of maintaining a secure environment looms large.

Instead of security walls, surround your carnival of virtue signalling with bridges to let grooming gangs…

The phrase “surround your carnival of virtue signalling with bridges to let grooming gangs” is a provocative statement that touches on deeper societal issues. It questions the effectiveness of simply preaching ideals like inclusivity and bridging divides while physical walls stand as barriers. The irony of advocating for building bridges while simultaneously enforcing security measures, in a way, points to a broader societal hypocrisy.

Many might argue that the security walls are necessary. Festivals are often targets for various threats, and ensuring the safety of attendees is paramount. However, this does lead us to wonder: can we have both security and a message of openness? The debate around security measures at events like Glastonbury often leads to discussions about how we can create safer spaces without compromising the values we hold dear.

The Complexity of Security at Festivals

When you think about festivals, the first things that come to mind might be music, art, and fun. However, the reality is that with large gatherings come significant security risks. Events like Glastonbury need to be prepared for various challenges, from crowd control to potential threats from outside. This is where the security walls come into play.

But should the focus solely be on creating barriers? The conversation around “BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS” suggests an alternative approach. Instead of simply fortifying the perimeter, what if festivals engaged with their communities more actively? Building bridges could mean fostering relationships with local residents, involving them in the festival planning process, or even providing platforms for local artists and voices.

Virtue Signalling vs. Real Action

Critics of events like Glastonbury often label them as “carnivals of virtue signalling.” This term implies that the messages of openness and inclusivity are more about posturing than genuine action. If festivals are serious about their messages, they need to ensure that their actions align with their words. Otherwise, they risk being seen as hypocritical, which can lead to public backlash.

Glastonbury has made strides in terms of sustainability and social awareness, but the challenge remains: how can they maintain their core message while addressing real-world issues? Engaging in dialogues about safety, inclusivity, and community involvement could be a step in the right direction.

Creating Safe Spaces for Everyone

It’s essential to create safe spaces, not just for festival-goers, but for everyone involved in the community. The idea of using bridges instead of walls can extend beyond the physical structures around a festival. It can mean promoting dialogue between different communities, creating programs that address social issues, and ensuring everyone feels welcome.

Safety doesn’t have to come at the cost of inclusivity. It’s about finding that balance where everyone can enjoy the festival experience without fear. Maybe it’s time to rethink our approach to security at large events. Instead of simply building walls, can we build connections?

The Role of Community in Festivals

Festivals like Glastonbury have the potential to be more than just entertainment hubs; they can be catalysts for community engagement. By collaborating with local organizations, they can create initiatives that promote safety and inclusivity. This might involve working with local law enforcement, community leaders, and even attendees to ensure that everyone feels safe and included.

Imagine a festival that not only provides a platform for music but also educates attendees about local issues, invites community leaders to speak, and fosters a sense of belonging among diverse groups. This is the kind of bridge-building that can create lasting change.

Engaging in Meaningful Conversations

One of the most significant aspects of festivals is the conversations that happen around them. They are places where ideas are exchanged, and discussions about societal issues take center stage. By encouraging dialogue about security, inclusivity, and community, festivals can help attendees feel more connected and invested in the space they inhabit.

Corbyn’s comments may have been aimed at highlighting hypocrisy, but they also open the door to deeper discussions. How can we create environments that prioritize safety without compromising core values? It’s a question worth exploring as we move forward in a world that increasingly demands both security and inclusivity.

Finding a Balance: The Future of Festivals

The future of festivals like Glastonbury lies in their ability to adapt and respond to the needs of their communities. As the world evolves, so do the expectations of festival-goers. They desire not just a fun experience but one that resonates with their values and beliefs.

Building bridges rather than walls isn’t just a catchy slogan; it’s a guiding principle for creating events that foster connection, understanding, and safety. By prioritizing community engagement and open dialogue, festivals can pave the way for a more inclusive and harmonious environment.

In Summary: Bridging the Gap

The discussion around Corbyn’s comments at Glastonbury is a microcosm of larger societal debates. It challenges us to think critically about how we approach security, community, and inclusivity. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our values and find ways to align our actions with our words.

While security walls may be a necessary part of festival life, let’s not forget the importance of building bridges—both literally and metaphorically. By fostering connections and engaging with communities, we can create safer and more inclusive spaces for everyone.

As we look to the future of festivals, let’s embrace the idea of building bridges. It’s not just about tearing down walls; it’s about creating pathways that allow for connection, understanding, and growth. And that, in essence, is what a festival should be all about.