The Autumn Rebellion is now over. We have seen the Police carrying out pre-emptive arrests, seizing equipment (including disabled access equipment), carrying out stop and searches of anyone wearing XR badges, a total ban on ALL XR protest in London; but some amazing bravery by XR rebels and some creative and powerful actions and art. We also saw Olympic athletes arrested, the co-leader of the Green Party arrested and handcuffed, and the non-violence code holding firm in the face of some very vigorous policing. One of my Bedford XR colleagues, Councillor Ben Foley was arrested whilst protesting the seizure of disabled access equipment, and spent some hours in custody in his wheelchair, so much respect to him. We managed to seize the media agenda again, with regular front pages, an appearance on BBC Question Time, and numerous debates and phone ins discussing our actions. Not all of the coverage was positive, and an XR action to disrupt tube travel at Canning Town, carried out by a small band of rebels despite almost overwhelming opposition from more than 73% of XR's citizen's assemblies, proved especially controversial. However, we are now becoming accepted as 'mainstream', and in my native Milton Keynes last week, the Council invited Extinction Rebellion to advise on their efforts to reduce Miloton Keynes' carbon footprint and attempt to become the UK's 'greenest city'. That wouldn't have happened without our non-violent direct actions. Slowly, very slowly, we are having an impact.
In other news, my trial is rapidly approaching, and I am working hard on preparing my defence. I will soon know how successfully. A kind XR supporter has offered his house to put me up during the two day trial, which will save much unnecessary travel. I am nervous, but determined. We have a crowdfunder to help Bedford rebels with costs of their defence. Please consider a donation if you can afford it - it will really help us.