Christchurch protest as part of global day of action

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Use

A Christchurch protest has been organised for Saturday 27th October, 12 noon in Cathedral Square as part of the "Global Day Of Action" in solidarity with those arrested, raided, questioned and terrorised during and since the raids of Monday October 15th. Supporters of the arrestees will take to the streets with their message and finish off with a picnic lunch with live music.

"This global day of action shows how widespread support is for those arrested. Already we have seen protests in such countries as Germany, Canada and Greece while Saturday will have protests in at least 6 centres across Aotearoa / New Zealand plus overseas in places like Melbourne and London," said group spokesperson Asher Goldman, "This support will only grow unless these political prisoners are released back to their families and friends."

"We will take to the streets to show that we will not be intimidated by the Police tactics over the past two weeks," said group spokesperson Daniela Petrosino, "Those arrested were involved in struggles for Tino Rangatiratanga, the enviroment, peace, worker's rights and social justice, and we will continue those struggles while they are locked away. It is vital that political dissent increases when it is under attack from the State, not the other way around."

"All over the word, movements of dissent are under attack by the State and its forces. As usual, the New Zealand government is falling in behind the US," said Goldman, "It is not surprising that Tuhoe bore the brunt of State repression recently, as indigenous people's the world over are among those harassed most."

The protest will meet in Cathedral Square at 12 noon, and will march shortly afterwards with speakers discussing the issues raised by these raids. The protest will end in a community picnic with live music and food, creating a safe space where we can support each other.

ENDS

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