The article expresses deep concern over the police's violent forced entry into a Quaker meeting space in London, which impacted a non-Quaker spiritual group. The act of intrusion felt like a violation of personal sanctuary, leaving members with feelings of devastation and grief. The author argues against justifying such violence, underscoring the need for safe, quiet spaces in society. Additionally, a member of the House of Lords reflects on the historical role of Quakers in advocating for social justice and urges the current government to rethink recent policing laws that threaten community rights.
"Of course it will be argued that the invasion of the space was a necessary evil, but I have to state with force that what we now suffer is real hurt, whereas the prevention of resistance in London is harm as yet not done."
"Violence is violence, whoever commits it, and there is real loss here, real suffering, and real grief."
"Quakers have been at the forefront of many radical changes for the better, such as abolition of slavery and prison reform."
"This Labour government must not continue down the repressive route of the last government. We must take the opportunity to roll back the excesses of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Public Order Act 2023."
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