Modern Social History · Galashiels
Scottish Independence March – Galashiels, 1st June 2019
On 1st June 2019, thousands marched peacefully through the streets of Galashiels as part of the All Under One Banner movement, calling for Scottish Independence. It was a powerful show of unity, pride, and hope from the heart of the Borders.
Watch the film
On 1st June 2019, thousands marched peacefully through the streets of Galashiels as part of the All Under One Banner movement, calling for Scottish Independence. It was a powerful show of unity, pride, and hope from the heart of the Borders. Load the film below, then press play to watch it here in the archive.
Watch here in the archive
Loading this film allows YouTube to receive connection and device information and use cookies or similar storage. You can keep reading without loading it.
Privacy & cookiesScottish Independence March Galashiels
Whatever your politics, no one can deny the Independence March in Galashiels today was an extraordinary spectacle!!
“All Under One Banner” brings a spectacular sea of Saltires to the Borders
On 1st June 2019, something extraordinary happened in Galashiels. A peaceful march, organised by the group All Under One Banner, brought thousands of passionate supporters of Scottish Independence to the streets of this Borders town.
Whatever your political views — whether you’re Yes, No, Undecided, or just watching with interest — it’s hard to deny the energy, colour, and scale of this event.
A River of Blue and White
From early morning, the streets of Gala began to fill with Saltires, lion rampant flags, banners, pipes, drums, and chants of “Scotland, Scotland!” Locals lined the streets, some cheering, some simply watching — all witnessing a rare and powerful show of civic demonstration in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The march snaked its way through town — joyful, peaceful, and proud — with participants of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life.
Why Galashiels?
Galashiels isn’t the first place many would expect to see such a massive display of pro-independence sentiment. But that’s exactly the point. Organisers chose the Borders deliberately — to show that the independence conversation doesn’t stop at Edinburgh or Glasgow.
The Borders may have been cautious in the 2014 referendum, but as the crowd in Galashiels proved, the debate here is very much alive.
Peaceful, Powerful, Passionate
There were no arrests. No violence. Just thousands of people walking with purpose, waving flags, singing songs, and showing solidarity. It was a family-friendly affair, full of colour and music — with a message aimed squarely at Westminster:
Scotland is watching. Scotland is thinking. Scotland is marching.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re for or against independence, events like this demonstrate the power of grassroots movements, the passion of political expression, and the strength of community. In a world too often divided by anger, this march showed that peaceful protest can still make a powerful statement.
Were you there?
Share your photos, memories, or thoughts in the comments.
Want to know more?
Check out All Under One Banner for upcoming marches and events across Scotland.
Keep exploring
More from the archive.
Follow another thread through the places, people and periods of the Borderlands.
Your memories and comments
Do you remember this place, or have something to add? Share a memory, ask a question or help us fill in the story.
Loading comments…