London: Peace activists in London to protest DSEI Arms Fair

Campaigners outside Parliament today

This morning, a coalition of activists began to arrive at the DSEI Arms Fair at ExCel London. A group of Peace Pilgrims have walked from Oxford to EXCEL to demonstrate peace as a way of life, in defiance to the violence that characterises the arms trade.

Many of the Pilgrims are motivated by religious and spiritual beliefs. The group is ecumenical, united by a belief in peace - including: Catholic, Protestants and atheists.

Sandie, one of the Christian pilgrims, cites scripture for taking part in this peaceful, direct action: "Tomorrow we will witness the great monster of the arms trade, powers, money, capitalism. 'We battle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers.'(Eph 6.12) And right here, God gives us our very own banquet of love and compassion, standing together. What more do we need than the beloved community?"

Debby, organising with Quaker Roots, comments: "This week I will join with strangers to form a community of people of different faiths and none. We will stand shoulder to shoulder to say no to the arms dealers and governments who perpetuate this dreadful trade. I am a Quaker and I believe strongly that we are called to love our neighbour. I am challenged to love the neighbours I live next door to as well as though who live miles away. My heart weeps for those who are displaced, who go hungry and thirsty and who have lost loved ones as drones circle, bombs drop and guns shatter limbs and steal lives. I hope that as part of this community, I will bring the arms trade and the UK's involvement in organising DSEI into full public view and that we will see the continuation of global movements that say "enough genocide", "enough injustice" - a better world is possible."

Tonight there will be a Silent Candlelit Vigil organised by Pax Christi and British Quakers despite the disruption to travel caused by the industrial action on the tube.

If you are planning to join, the DLR and Elizabeth lines are operating and Royal Victoria DLR station remains the meeting point.
The Waterloo and City Lines and London Overground are also working and connect to both those services. TFL are warning that all services could be busier than usual.

If you arrive early there will be a 'Taize Against the Tanks' liturgy at the Royal Victoria Square entrance to the Excel Centre from 6pm and you could join that and stay on for the vigil. Don't forget your jar and candle !