#WeMakeEvents, #ExcludedUK and Crisis unite in protest
- Details
Organisers hope the action will highlight the plight of around three million workers, who remain excluded from the state’s economic relief measures related to the pandemic.
Silent Nights will start at 7pm on 18 December (Friday) and end at 7am on 19 December. Organisers are inviting those whose livelihoods have been affected by the pandemic to participate by sleeping out at their place of work. This could include venues (if permitted), homes, shops, offices or salons.
Organiser Tom Branston comments: “This is even more urgent following the prime minister’s refusal yesterday to meet with #ExcludedUK following a plea from Leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) in the House of Commons, Rt. Hon Ian Blackford MP. He laid bare the fact that so many have still not received a penny from the government and advised the PM that many were in such a desperate situation they are losing their homes, and very sadly, eight people have already taken their own lives.”
“Our goal is to raise as much as possible to help those who really need it," he adds. "We need to pull together more than ever and support each other at this time of year.”
The event is COVID-secure with the activity devised to fit within current guidelines. Participants are encouraged to grab their Christmas jumper and dress up warm at permissible outdoor spaces with their families or support bubble. The #ExcludedUK Children’s Choir will premiere a lullaby of the song ‘?’
The action is free for participants, although they are required to register and are asked to commit to raising at least £50. Funds will be distributed between #WeMakeEvents, #ExcludedUK and Crisis. Participants can register to take part by visiting www.silentnights.org.uk. Donations can be made on silentnights.raisely.com/donate
