Dave Smith, author and activist with the Blacklist Support Group, was arrested on the evening of 18th March at a peaceful demonstration against the sacking of two workers who raised concerns on the Crossrail project. A further protest has been called to show that those campaigning against the blacklist will not be intimidated by the state.
Dave Smith, author and activist with the Blacklist Support Group, was arrested on the evening of 18th March at a peaceful demonstration against the sacking of two electricians who raised health and safety concerns on the Crossrail project.
A further protest has been called for this afternoon (Friday 20th March) to show solidarity with Dave Smith, and to emphasise that Dave and others campaigning against the blacklist will not be intimidated by the state.
Friday 20th March, 5.30pm
Bond Street, London Underground Station
Dave’s arrest came following a demonstration of around 40 protestors gathered peacefully outside the Construction News Awards. Dave was quickly singled out, targeted and arrested by the police, and was soon taken to a police station and charged with obstruction of the highway. He will be appearing in court on 27th March.
A video of the protest and of Dave’s arrest can be seen below.
Upon his release, Dave released the following statement:
“A massive ‘Thank You’ for all the solidarity and support tonight. When multinational construction firms sack our safety reps and collude with the police to blacklist union members, they get away scot free. But if we protest about it, we get arrested.”
- NO MORE SACKINGS!
- NO MORE ARRESTS!
- NO MORE DEATHS!
- WE WANT AN AGREEMENT ON CROSSRAIL
