Dear John
During these times of climate and ecological emergency and repeated attempts to dismantle environmental regulations, our right to speak up against those in power has never been more important.
But in its controversial new policing bill, the UK government is trying to rush through laws that would severely restrict your right to non-violent protest.
These draconian measures permanently threaten your freedoms. They could prevent us from protecting the planet and further marginalise vulnerable communities. They would limit access to the countryside. And crucially, they would remain after Covid limitations end.
If you’ve already spoken out against the policing bill, thank you. But we urgently need to do a lot more to protect your voice:
- Carry out legal scrutiny of the bill and its implications for your rights.
- Campaign in parliament and public to remove attacks on non-violent protest and trespass from the bill.
- Build an even stronger coalition of organisations to oppose the bill.
And we’re going to need your support to do it. So if you haven't already, please consider becoming a member by setting up a monthly gift.
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Non-violent protest is an essential part of a functioning democracy and our ability to campaign for a livable future.
Protests aren’t always quiet or convenient and nor should they be. But they do work. And we should know.
From passing the historic Climate Change Act to banning bee-killing pesticides and securing a moratorium on fracking, many of the biggest wins for the planet have used non-violent protest to push politicians to act.
This new threat to our freedoms is totally disproportionate. The bill would impose laws that would carry harsh sentences for engaging in non-violent protest. In fact, the bill’s vague language means that even a single school climate striker could potentially face arrest for being too noisy or causing annoyance.
Nomadic Gypsy and Traveller communities could also find their very way of life being criminalised and their homes and possessions seized.
We can’t let them make decisions about our rights as citizens behind closed doors. Our voices must not be stifled.
So please consider becoming a member today, to help our lawyers and campaigners stand up to the government – and put a stop to this threat to our essential rights.
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All the best,
Dave Timms
Head of Political Affairs, Legal and Planning
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Just as a note, the email you see above may be very slightly different than the version you received first time around. Originally, you may have been asked to make a donation for this appeal whereas we're now asking you to consider becoming a member.
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