Nigel Farage has never been one to hold back—and his latest outrage has stirred a significant conversation across the UK. Recently, the former UKIP leader and high-profile political figure voiced his frustration and disbelief over what he called the “woke councils” after a controversial decision by Dacorum Borough Council to cancel a VE Day military parade. This move, described as an effort to avoid being “elitist,” has not only shocked veterans and local communities but also ignited a broader debate on patriotism, political correctness, and cultural identity in Britain.
VE Day—Victory in Europe Day—is a deeply symbolic day for the UK, marking the end of World War II in Europe. For many, it’s a moment to honor those who served and sacrificed for peace. The cancellation of such a commemorative parade, therefore, isn’t just a change in local scheduling; it’s become a flashpoint in a growing cultural and political tug-of-war over national values.
Let’s unpack what happened, why it matters, and how Farage’s reaction is echoing through the political landscape.
2. The VE Day Parade Cancellation: What Really Happened
Dacorum Borough Council, based in Hertfordshire and led by the Liberal Democrats, made the controversial decision to scrap the 2025 VE Day military parade that was set to honor the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in Europe. Instead of the traditional event, the council suggested that residents hold “street parties” in private neighborhoods.
Their reasoning? The council reportedly feared that a military-themed event might come across as “elitist” and potentially exclude some segments of the community. This explanation, however, was met with a mix of confusion and backlash from the public and political figures alike.
Critics, including veterans and military families, saw the move as tone-deaf and disrespectful to the legacy of World War II servicemen and women. The suggestion to replace the formal parade with casual gatherings was perceived as a dismissal of the gravity and honor the day traditionally commands.
This single act has become a microcosm of a larger national conversation: where is the line between inclusivity and erasing history?
3. Nigel Farage’s Reaction: “Disgusted and Appalled”
Nigel Farage didn’t mince words. Speaking while campaigning in Hertfordshire, the Reform UK figurehead slammed the decision as a disgrace. “I’m disgusted and appalled,” he declared, going on to label the move as a clear example of “woke madness” seeping into British institutions.
Farage argued that VE Day is not just another public holiday—it’s a foundational part of British identity and deserves to be respected with due ceremony. He warned that decisions like this one reflect a broader cultural shift that’s distancing the nation from its historical roots and values.
This is far from Farage’s first foray into “culture war” politics. He has built much of his career rallying against political correctness, European influence, and what he perceives as the erosion of British traditions. But this latest incident gives him new ammunition to criticize what he frames as an increasingly disconnected political elite.
For Farage, this isn’t just about one parade—it’s about a national trend. His pointed rhetoric is resonating with many who feel that British history and identity are under threat in a world increasingly obsessed with not offending anyone.
4. “Woke Councils” and the Political Fallout
The term “woke” has become highly charged in political discourse, often used by critics to describe progressive policies or ideas they see as overly sensitive or ideologically driven. Farage’s use of the phrase “woke councils” in this context speaks volumes about the ideological fault lines that are widening across the UK.
The VE Day incident has reignited debates about how councils—particularly those run by more liberal political parties—navigate issues of tradition, inclusivity, and representation. While some argue that these councils are attempting to modernize events to be more inclusive, others, like Farage, argue that they’re erasing essential parts of national heritage in the process.
This backlash isn’t isolated. Across the UK, local councils have faced criticism for everything from renaming streets to removing statues and rethinking national holidays—all in the name of inclusivity. Whether these efforts are noble or misguided is hotly debated, but one thing is clear: the tension between tradition and transformation is only intensifying.
5. The Role of Reform UK in the Wider Debate
Reform UK, the political party led by Richard Tice and championed by Farage, has increasingly positioned itself as the voice for those disillusioned by mainstream politics. Capitalizing on moments like this, the party continues to campaign on themes of national pride, anti-establishment sentiment, and restoring “common sense” governance.
The VE Day controversy plays perfectly into their messaging. It allows them to paint the current political landscape as out of touch and dominated by cultural elites more concerned with appearing progressive than preserving national legacy.
Farage’s criticism also ties into his broader concerns about local government operations, including calls to end remote work for council employees and slash inflated executive salaries. By targeting these systemic issues alongside cultural decisions like the VE Day parade cancellation, Reform UK is working to position itself as the people’s party—focused on both efficiency and tradition.
6. Public Reactions: Outrage, Support, and Everything In Between
Unsurprisingly, the public reaction has been intense and deeply polarized. On social media, hashtags related to VE Day and “Woke Councils” trended within hours of Farage’s statement. Many echoed his sentiments, arguing that cancelling a military parade dishonors the memory of the war generation and disrespects the military community.
Veterans’ groups have spoken out as well, calling the decision “disgraceful” and organizing independent commemorations in protest. Meanwhile, some progressive voices have defended the council’s decision, stating that modernization of public celebrations is necessary for an evolving, diverse society.
The emotional weight behind this issue stems from the generational significance of VE Day. For many British families, it’s a personal story—grandparents who fought in the war, relatives who never came home, and memories tied to sacrifice and unity. For them, a parade isn’t just ceremonial—it’s sacred.
