A calm, diverse and inclusive event opened today Friday 21st April in Westminster, London. Organised by Extinction Rebellion in coalition with over 200 environmental and social organisations, a wide range of people attended. From babies-in-buggies to elders sporting badges, there were homemade cardboard placards proudly carried for hours between pickets and the main stage.
Government departments and think tanks were “picketed” by multiple pressure groups and unions. Performers sang songs and group leaders made impassioned speeches. The April showers proved that we cannot control the climate. The deputy prime minister Dominic Raab had resigned before 10am over allegations of bullying civil servants.
Police presence was subtle, which made the event feel comfortable and hopeful. Tourists ooh-ed and ahh-ed over Big Ben – which was a constant reminder that time is always ticking…
You can follow The Big One programme on the Extinction Rebellion website www.extinctionrebellion.uk and on social channels. Their Telegram feed is being updated regularly each day. The protests run until Monday 24th April.
