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Extinction Rebellion’s own supporters call for protest to be cancelled
UPDATE: Sunday, May 17, 12.38pm
Today’s planned event is no longer taking place. An Extinction Rebellion spokesperson told Bristol24/7: “This afternoon’s event has now been cancelled by Bristol XR. Organisers were responding to concerns raised by XR supporters, even though the social distancing requirements for the event exceeded government guidelines.”
Some of Extinction Rebellion’s own supporters are calling for an event due to take place on Sunday to be cancelled.
A protest is scheduled to start on Queen Square from 2pm, with cyclists setting off in pairs on their “cycle in solidarity”.
The aim of the event “is to celebrate our new bike-friendly streets and push for permanent change”.
is needed now More than ever
An Extinction Rebellion Bristol spokesperson told Bristol24/7 that “social distancing guidelines will be respected throughout”.
She added: “In addition, on the advice of an XR scientist, there will be spacing of 10m between the pairs of cyclists to allow for increased respiration and slipstream. Masks will be worn by those taking part.”
But Extinction Rebellion supporters are asking the organisers of the event to stop it from taking place.
Writing on the Facebook page event, Jack Fifield said: “This undermines the cause and will cause public backlash even amongst dedicated moderate supporters such as myself…
“Please reconsider this action, as well as protecting health, the environmental impact of healthcare should also be considered.”
Rosie Poebright added: “I appreciate what you’re hoping to achieve but I really really hope you reconsider this, there are certainly better ways to reclaim space right now than protest gatherings of multiple people.”
Main photo: Extinction Rebellion
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