People of all faiths and none are invited to join a silent, candlelit vigil on the eve of the DSEI arms fair, in solidarity with victims of the arms trade. The vigil will take place from 7-8pm in Royal Victoria Square (timings for 2025 now confirmed).
People are invited to gather at Royal Victoria DLR station at 6.30pm to travel to the vigil site together. Some of us will travel together after the Walk of Witness. Please don’t be late as the gates to the square may be closed after 7pm. It is likely that strikes will mean that there is no DLR service that day, and the station itself may be closed. The Elizabeth line runs from central London to Custom House, which is a 5/10minute walk to Royal Victoria. This will be unaffected by the strikes, but be prepared for it to be busy. If you're staying in East London, many buses stop at Custom House.
Bring a candle and a container for it (a jar works well). The vigil typically takes place with permission of the police and Excel Centre security, and so we expect it to be relatively family friendly. However, the law on protest has changed and we can never be certain of how the police will act in any situation. Please make sure you are informed – visit the Green & Black Cross website for information and training on your rights and how to keep yourself and others safe at a protest.
There will be stewards on hand from Quakers in Britain and Pax Christi. This is a short event with no specific infrastructure in place – please come with weather-appropriate clothing and any food, drink or medication you might need, and a face mask if you want to wear one. For any accessibility questions please email peace@quaker.org.uk
gather at South side of Royal Victoria DLR station
By the roundabout on Seagull Lane
London, E16 1BY
United Kingdom