The Surprising Reason Why Brits Are Wearing A #SafetyPin After Brexit

It’s a small gesture with a powerful meaning

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Across the UK, people are pinning safety pins to their clothing as a statement against post-Brexit racism.

In the days following the UK’s monumental decision to leave the EU, reports of racially motivated crimes have increased by a shocking 57%. Now, Brits are fighting back with a simple yet powerful message of solidarity.

On Tuesday night, 30-year-old Twitter user Allison began a social media movement: #safetypin.

So I have an idea similar to #ridewithme to help protect those eing abused as result of Brexit referendum – but I need your help.
— miss pommery 1926 ✊ (@cheeahs) June 26, 2016

I'd like to come up with something that can be made by anybody anywhere to pin on their jacket or coat to signify that they are an ally.
— miss pommery 1926 ✊ (@cheeahs) June 26, 2016

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I quite like the idea of just putting a safety pin, empty of anything else, on your coat. A literal SAFETY pin!
— miss pommery 1926 ✊ (@cheeahs) June 26, 2016

The hashtag caught on. Now, people across the UK are pinning an empty safety pin to their outfit and posting on social media.

https://twitter.com/keithgrimes/status/748053547841896449

https://twitter.com/DrAlakbarov/status/748067533614354432

https://twitter.com/clinteldorado/status/747811377625042945

https://twitter.com/MrJackHawkins/status/748062569538199552

Erin Cook