Extinction Rebellion demonstrators. Photo: Christian Climate Action.
Friends split on XR
Debate over whether 'rebellion' should go ahead during pandemic
Quaker Extinction Rebellion (XR) campaigners have been split on the issue of whether the recent XR ‘rebellion’ in Bristol, London, Manchester and Cardiff should have gone ahead. There was debate on the XR Quakers Facebook page where one member posted he could not support this week’s action despite being an active campaigner for two years. ‘I do not think “rebelling” in the middle of a global pandemic, with the public in a very fragile and damaged state, with the police stretched to their limit trying to safeguard the public from those who disregard lockdown, is a kind thing to do. The fact that some actions will be taking police away from their safeguarding duties is, in fact, potentially endangering people’s lives,’ he said.
Others agreed, while many pointed to the urgency of the situation and the need to protest now. ‘Yes the pandemic has/is causing misery but it’s nothing compared with the misery that people are/will suffer from increasing extreme weather events’, one member said. ‘Floods in China, fires in California and Siberia ... won’t stop for the pandemic.’
Meanwhile, seventy-eight-year-old Bristol Quaker Chris Gwyntopher acted in a support role during the Bristol and Cardiff protests. He said: ‘With a lock-on, it can be a long time, so people need practical and emotional support to keep going, If there are arrests, it’s about passing the details on to the back office so solicitors can be contacted and checking the reason. My experience of being arrested was fairly alarming, but I haven’t been mishandled, although it happens.’
The co-founder of XR, Roger Hallam, was sent to prison at the end of August along with four other members of his new political party Beyond Politics.
The group, which includes a former priest, immediately began a hunger strike. The five people were charged with conspiring to cause criminal damage at upcoming environmental protests.
Comments
How many are FOR and how many AGAINST is not the Quaker way. Each of us must do what we feel guided to do, and support those who disagree.
Personally I am very grateful for those who are still prepared to face prosecution for this cause. Twenty year ago I wold have been with them.
By john0708 on 3rd September 2020 - 14:42
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