A WELSH independence march will be taking place later this year in a town embedded in the movement’s history.
YesCymru and All Under One Banner Cymru have confirmed the next demonstration will take place in Barry on Saturday, April 26.
The Vale of Glamorgan town – about nine miles from Cardiff – played a pivotal role in the Cymru Fydd (Young Wales) movement of the 1890s, which championed Welsh home rule and self-governance.
The first Welsh branch of Cymru Fydd was formed in Bethel Chapel, Cadoxton, in 1892, and Cymru Fydd members won seats in Barry’s first council elections in 1894.
Cymru Fydd emerged as a response to the growing desire among the Welsh people for self-governance.
The movement sought to empower communities by advocating for legislative powers that would allow them to make decisions on key issues such as education, trade, and infrastructure.
Ahead of the march, organiser and local councillor Mark Hooper said the thirst for self-determination in Wales remains strong.
“The historical significance of Cymru Fydd in the 1890s serves as a powerful reminder of our collective voice,” he said.
“As we face contemporary challenges, the thirst for self-determination remains as strong as ever. It’s crucial that we honour our past while advocating for a future that reflects our values and priorities.”
Since 2019, thousands have participated in independence marches in towns and cities across Wales, including Caernarfon, Merthyr, Wrexham, Bangor, Swansea, Carmarthen, and Cardiff.
The march in Cardiff in 2022 drew more than 10,000 participants, marking one of the largest gatherings for the cause to date.
Support for an independent Wales in August 2023 stood at 38% with don’t knows removed in a Redfield and Wilton Strategies poll.
But in a YouGov poll in September last year just 24% of people said they supported the country becoming fully independent.
However, the YouGov poll did show strong support for more powers being handed to the Senedd – with 40% saying they supported the idea.
In December, polling showed strong support for Plaid Cymru with a survey by Barn Cymru showing the party would win 24% of the vote should a Senedd election be called, with Welsh Labour falling behind at 23%.
The March for Independence in Barry is jointly organised by YesCymru and AUOBCymru, both volunteer-led grassroots organisations committed to achieving independence for Wales.
YesCymru chair Phyl Griffiths said:“YesCymru is dedicated to the goal of an independent Wales that embraces and celebrates the full diversity of everyone who has made Wales their home.
“Join us in Barry on April 26 to make your voice heard and stand with thousands of others who believe in a brighter, independent future for Wales.”
To find out more about the movement click here.
