Response To London Bombings

Two days ago London was jubilant and celebrating having secured the Olympics. Yesterday. London was in shock as the long expected act of terror took place. It reminds us all of the fragility of life and the difference that one-day can make. As a result of the bombings the Justice Not Vengeance group has issued this statement.

Today’s horrific events in London demand an active response from the movements for peace and justice.

Justice Not Vengeance and Voices in the Wilderness UK are proposing that  anti-war and other groups around  the UK hold silent vigils in their town centres at some point over this weekend (in Hastings, a vigil is being held  in front of the town hall at 6pm on Friday), on the following themes (please amend as you see fit):

SOLIDARITY with those who are suffering directly as a result of the London atrocities – and all those who have suffered violence in the course of the “war on terror”

We stand silently to remember those who have lost their lives, those who have been injured, and those who have been bereaved by the terrorist attacks in London. We also remember all those who have died as a result of violence in the course of the “war on terror” - in the United States, in Afghanistan, in Iraq, in Indonesia, in Spain, and elsewhere.

SOLIDARITY with those who are now threatened with a violent backlash

We stand silently to express our determination to defend the Muslim community, Arab communities, and other groups who face abuse and violent attacks in the wake of these outrages in London. We condemn all attempts to hold Islam itself responsible for the attacks in London or for any other acts of terrorism.

COMMITMENT to true security and justice

We are determined to resist military retaliation against other nations, believing that military action undermines our security rather than strengthening it.

We resolve to resist repressive legislation, which deepens grievances rather than building justice and reconciliation.

If you hold a vigil, please let the press/radio know in advance (take your own photograph and send it in to your local paper if they don't send a photographer) AND please also send a report to us at <info@j-n-v.org>

There will be more materials appearing on the JNV website (www.j-n-v.org) over the next 48 hours.

Comments

[Lauren]

i hate the way that ppl can take away innocent lives. i think we should kill all the people who are involved in all the groups which are causing all this death amd destruction.

Love Lauren
xxx