Published on Tue May 7, 2019 by David J Colbran
London, UK. 27th April 2019. Extinction Rebellion Cyclists 'Swarm' Central London to Protest Insect Death
Extinction Rebellion Cyclists 'Swarm' Central London to Protest Insect Death - Extinction Rebellion demonstrators held a "Critical Mass" cycling event around London and a die-in at the Tate Modern on April 27 2019 to protest against the deaths of insects, mainly bees, due to climate change, according to participants.
I caught up with some of the climate protesters in London recently - it was towards the end of two weeks of direct action across the capital. This was of particular interest to me, as I used to participate in Critical Mass rides evey month when I lived in London and commuted by bike in to central London.
Critical Mass is a cycling event typically held on the last Friday of every month; its purpose is not usually formalized beyond the direct action of meeting at a set location and time and traveling as a group through city or town streets on bikes.
The event originated in 1992 in San Francisco; by the end of 2003, the event was being held in over 300 cities around the world.
Critical Mass has been described as "monthly political-protest rides", and characterized as being part of a social movement. It has been described as a "monthly protest by cyclists reclaiming the streets." Participants have insisted that these events should be viewed as "celebrations" and spontaneous gatherings, and not as protests or organized demonstrations. This stance allows Critical Mass to argue a legal position that its events can occur without advance notification of local police.
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Author: David J Colbran
Back on the blog with a quick update on recent business and commercial photography commissions. Working with a housing association, a bike charity, a medical society, a recruitment agency and a dental practice.
A really interesting commission working with Livv Housing documenting a fire and rescue exercise in high-rise residential apartments in Kirkby. These are the people who will literally save your life!
Another Liverpool industrial photography commission under the belt and more hi-viz PPE added to the boot of the car. This time nice and local in the Old Swan, a couple of miles away from home. It was for the Lister Drive Greener Grid Park installation which is currently under construction.
"Had a really great photo shoot with David, punctual, professional and put me at ease straight away. I couldn't have asked for more and the results speak for themselves, excellent pictures, perfect for Spotlight! Will be calling again, thank you."