As we ground ourselves spiritually for our witness, it’s important to remember that will we be witnessing alongside people of all faiths and none, and are asked to uphold one another in a diversity of non-violent tactics.
On the day, we will have bustcards available, and legal observers will be on hand, as well as volunteer stewards. However we all need to take responsibility for ourselves. We recommend having a buddy or buddies – a person or two who you will mutually check-in with and look out for each other.
Finally, a reminder that we are a volunteer-led community, and your help will make all the difference in ensuring our witness is safe, spiritually grounded, and creative.
Key Know Your Rights messages:
- No Comment – You do not need to answer police questions, so don’t.
- No Personal Details – You do not have to give personal details under ANY stop and search power, so don’t.
- Under What Power? – Ask “What power?” to challenge the police to act lawfully
- No Duty Solicitor – Use a recommended solicitor with protest experience
- No Caution – Cautions are an admission of guilt
Important update about No Faith in War Tues 9th Sept
We understand that on 9th September, a coalition of groups under the banner ‘the Big One’ are calling for a mass blockade of DSEI. The faith groups involved in No Faith in War have agreed to continue with our plans, offering a grounded and worshipful presence and upholding people who are taking risks to disrupt DSEI.
It is important for Friends to be aware that there may be a tense atmosphere on the day, and a more active police presence. We encourage everyone to to remind yourself of key advice about your rights, and to take time to reflect on the level of risk that you want to take.
We do not anticipate ‘the Big One’ to affect our Walk of Witness or the Peace Vigil organised by QPSW and Pax Christi, both on Mon 8th, nor our ‘Stop DSEI’ hand-in on Weds 10th. But it is still worth reminding yourself of your rights and looking out for yourself and others, if you plan to join one of these actions.