Leeds Kill the Bill Protest

Nick Jones from Leeds Left Unity reports on the Kill the Bill march there today

Leeds says Kill the Bill

Hundreds of protesters converged on Millennium Square Leeds for a peaceful socially distanced protest against Government proposals to restrict the right to protest. A coalition of groups gathered together including disability rights activists, Black Lives Matter, socialists and trade unionists.

It was overwhelmingly young and vibrant. The protest turned into a march around the city centre. The streets echoed the slogans “Kill the Bill” and “This is what democracy looks like”.

It is really important that the Labour movement take this issue seriously and do all they can to defeat this Bill. Jane Aitchison, the Chair of the Trades Council made an excellent opening speech and stressed that we need to make sure the unions are fully involved. She encourages people to bring their trade union banners to the next protest.

A coalition of over 150 political and campaigning organisations have issued a statement condemning the legislation. The legislation promises ten year prison sentences for damaging a statue but has little to say about protecting women from abuse. The legislation aims to silence campaigners on issues from animal rights, to the environment and struggles for freedom and equality.

The Leeds march begins a weekend of protest across the country.