The first official Irish Love Music Hate Racism gig is set for tonight in Dublin. The organisation was established in the UK in 2002 as a response to the growing popularity of the British National Party and similar political groups.

Several high-profile musicians and bands, such as The Libertines, Belle Sebastian and Morrissey, have participated in events. An Irish branch was launched earlier this year.

Tonight’s gig at The Purty Loft in Dún Laoghaire has been organised by State.ie, and will see performances by Saving J, Sweet Jane, Little Green Cars and Love Action DJs. Admission is €7 on the door.

Love Music Hate Racism spokesman Kurt Nikolaisen said that it was important to raise awareness of racism in Ireland, which remains a very real problem.

“People look up to musicians,” he said. “Music is a seriously powerful universal language [and a] good way of getting to the masses.”