A shocking incident occurred on March 27, 2025, when London police arrested six young people at a Quaker meeting house in Westminster. The arrests took place during a meeting focused on climate change and Gaza, sparking widespread condemnation from the Quaker community and human rights organizations.
Details of the Incident
According to eyewitnesses, the police broke into the meeting house, searching the building and arresting six women attending the meeting in a hired room. The Quakers have stated that the meeting was peaceful and lawful, with no intention of causing disruption or harm.
Quaker Response
The Quakers have strongly condemned the police action, stating that it’s a direct result of stricter protest laws that remove virtually all routes to challenge the status quo. Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain, emphasized that no one has been arrested in a Quaker meeting house in living memory.
“This is a disturbing development, and we are deeply concerned about the implications for freedom of speech and assembly,” Parker said. “Quakers have a long history of peaceful protest and advocacy for social justice. We will continue to speak out against injustice and support those who are working for a more equitable and sustainable world.”
Human Rights Concerns
The incident has sparked concerns about the erosion of democracy and the right to peaceful protest. Human rights organizations have criticized the police action, arguing that it undermines the fundamental right to freedom of assembly and expression.
“This is a worrying trend in the UK, where peaceful protesters are being increasingly criminalized,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. “The police must respect the rights of protesters and refrain from using excessive force or making arbitrary arrests.”
Arrested Individuals Released on Bail
The six individuals arrested at the Quaker meeting house have since been released on bail conditions, with charges pending. The Quaker community has rallied around the arrested individuals, offering support and solidarity.
Call to Action
The Quakers are calling on the UK government to review its protest laws and ensure that they are in line with international human rights standards. The Quaker community is also urging people to stand up for their right to peaceful protest and to support those who are working for social justice.
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– Quakers in Britain Condemn Police Action
– Human Rights Organizations Criticize UK Protest Laws