An event being held to defy members of the far right who will march in Exeter today has won the backing of the Dean of the city's cathedral.
The Very Rev Jonathan Draper said he was expressing solidarity with Exeter Together, which aims to bring together people of all races and backgrounds in the city.
The organisation was formed in response to plans by the far right group, the English Defence League (EDL), to march through the city.
Martyn Goss, from the Diocese of Exeter, said it supported the aims of Exeter Together.
"The Church has always recognised and affirmed the equality of all people, regardless of backgrounds, creed or colour.
"Both in our churches and in communities, we have been enriched by growing together across traditions."
Exeter Together's event will see hundreds of residents, community and religious groups, trade unions and councillors come together in a Celebration of Diversity in the city centre.
Ben Bradshaw, the city's MP, has joined the hundreds signing the Exeter Together statement and a letter from him will be read out at the celebration today.
Hannah Packham, Exeter Together spokesman said: "Exeter Together was formed just weeks ago after the shock announcement of a national EDL march in our city.
"While EDL members will be coming in from other parts of the country, Exeter residents have united to show that we will not be divided by their (the EDL's) hatred, lies and racism. Exeter has united in saying that we love the rich diversity of the city, which helps to make it the great place it is.
"It has been so inspiring to see how so many groups and organisations have worked together in such a short space of time to achieve so much.
"Our Celebration of Diversity is being held away from the EDL march.
"We want to focus on Exeter coming together to celebrate the multi-cultural, multi-race, multi-faith diversity of the city.
"Our message is clear: the EDL with their racist, divisive politics are not welcome in Exeter."