“We are all arrestables now” - how to protest safely

 all arrestables now.”

That’s the line that stayed with me, when earlier this year I started investigating the attacks on civil liberties and protest rights in the UK. Actions that were once considered legitimate ways of demanding change, have been criminalised. Teenagers, grandparents, lawyers, doctors and vicars have all been arrested for demanding an end to the climate crisis, to genocide, to police brutality. And anti-protest laws introduced by the Tories have continued under Labour.

Join openDemocracy for our FREE online event on 15 October where we will discuss the impact of the anti-protest laws on free speech in the UK – and learn how you can keep safe while standing up for your rights.

You will hear from activists, lawyers and experts from a range of protest movements as they discuss the impact of the new laws on freedom of expression and assembly, and share their advice on how to resist these attacks on our rights.

You will also have a chance to ask questions about the issues raised, and make connections with other activists who care deeply about creating a fairer and more just society.

Speakers include Lyle Barker from Liberty, Paul Stephens from XR, Sacha Ismail from Ukraine Solidarity Campaign and Bhavesh Hindocha from Palestine Solidarity Campaign (invited). Each speaker comes with a different perspective and area of expertise. But all share our determination to demand an end to unjust laws, and support our human right to protest.

When? 15 October

What time? 13:00

Where? Online

Thank you. I can’t wait to see you there.

Sian Norris

Senior investigations reporter (and veteran protest organiser)