As part of our series of films on a variety of environmental issues we are screening our November offering was 'The Line We Crossed' directed by Liz Smith.

This event was attended by around 50 people who I think were generally shocked by the issues raised on peaceful protest and how successive governments have brought in laws to suppress this fundamental democratic right.  The film focussed mainly on the slow walking actions of Just Stop Oil but of course also included more 'newsworthy' actions such as climbing up gantries over the M25. The film followed the stories of several protesters expressing why they were taking the actions they were and how they were treated by these laws and the police who had to enforce them.

Following the film (and cake!) we were treated to a question and answer session to a panel led by Liz Smith with Dr Alex McLaughlan of Exeter University who specialises in law relating to climate protest and our very own Laura Conyngham a local and active protester on environmental issues.

Liz has made a short sequel to the film called 'Requiem for Protest' which can be found on YouTube. This focuses particularly on the 'Lift the Ban' action as organised by the group 'Defend our Juries' with 2100 people arrested under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act after peaceful protest for supporting the proscribed 'terrorist' group Palestine Action.

Feedback wanted!
Liz has asked if those who attended the screening could provide feedback to the IMDG page that she can use to support the streaming release? Please go to https://www.imdb.com/title/tt34876497/ratings/

Alan Murray