GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN
Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) - truth and justice for victims of torture
THE USA MUST CLOSE GUANTANAMO
NO TO INDEFINITE DETENTION, NO TO TORTURE
The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights states:“Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” (Article 3),“No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” (Article 5),“No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.” (Article 9).
PROTEST ACTION - STOP THE TORTURE
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 5th February 2025
MONTHLY VIGIL
TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: Parliament Square, London
* You are requested to let your MP know you are taking part in the vigil and encourage them to visit the vigil to show their solidarity with the campaign.
* If you can attend this month's vigil then do let Co- convenor of the UKGN know you are coming, contact Sara on Mobile: +44 7710789616 Email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com
* Vigils call for justice "for those who are currently continuing to suffer gross violations in the Guantanamo Detention Centre ....it is vital that we remind the US that their human rights violations in Guantanamo are not going unnoticed and for those still detained to know that they have not been forgotten.”
The UKGN website can be visited here: www.ukguantanamonetwork.org
The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there:
Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign,
London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO
UK Guantanamo Network to mark the 23rd Anniversary of the opening of Guantanamo
Members of the UK Guantanamo Network (UKGN) are taking action in London
Saturday 11th January 2025
to mark the 23rd anniversary of the opening of Guantanamo Bay prison camp on 11 January 2002.
The UKGN campaigners (volunteers) will walk in single file on behalf of those still detained in Guantanamo
and to recognise those who have previously been detained there.
Route will be via Parliament Square (12 noon), then up past Downing Street and onto Trafalgar Square (2pm) where speeches will be given.
Letter hand-in to No.10 (Downing Street at 2.30pm)
The UKGN will be demanding the closure of Guantanamo and justice for those still detained there/those who have been detained there.
The action is expected to last approximately 3 hours (max) and volunteers will be asked to meet at midday Old Palace Yard opposite Parliament.
Able to be one of the volunteers?
If so - then you are requested to send your email contact address to Sara Birch (Lewes Amnesty Group and Convenor of the UK Guantanamo Network) who is putting together a list of all volunteers and will be available to answer any questions you may have. Sara is keeping all volunteers informed of information that they will need in order to take part in the campaign action. Contact Sara at: sarabirch50@hotmail.com
Exact directions and information for the day will be sent to you once you have signed up as a volunteer.
For details of the work of the UK Guantanamo Network visit: www.ukguantanamonetwork.org
For your information: The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
Webinar: 23 Years of Injustice
11th Jan. 2025
Cage says “ This event is a reminder that the fight to close Guantanamo and seek accountability is still ongoing.
Online event: 23 Years of Injustice: Survivors Speak, January 11, 2025, 6:00 PM
Sign up here: https://www.cage.ngo/events/guantanamo-survivors-speak
Org. CAGE International
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 4th December 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL: 1pm-3pm
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE,Westminster, London
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest opposite Parliament. Hold banners, placards, and photos of those still detained in the illegal prison. We engage with passers-by, discuss the issue and distribute campaign leaflets, and being a visual presence for those working in Parliament to see.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign says “ Let your Member of Parliament know you are taking part in the network's monthly vigils. Ask them to join you on Parliament Square and stand with you for a while as a show of solidarity, to demonstrate their support for the campaign.
All supporters are welcome to join the vigil. If you can, do please inform the UK Guantanamo Network Convenor, Sara Birch by email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com , to say you will be coming, doing this will be very helpful.
If you are unable to get to the vigils then you can still write to your MP, ask them to visit/join the monthly vigils, and tell them about the situation of the 30 detainees still forcibly held in Guantanamo."
For your information: The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there:
Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 6th November 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL: 1pm-3pm
Location: outside US EMBASSY, London
UKGN have requested campaigners to meet "just to the north of the Nine Elms Pavilion (i.e.upriver)”.
The location is next to Riverside Walk on Nine Elms Lane and directly opposite the side road Viaduct Gardens.
Click the dropped pin on Google Maps for exact location on Riverside Walk of where to meet.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign says "Let your Member of Parliament know you are taking part in the network's monthly vigils.
Ask them to join you on Parliament Square and stand with you for a while as a show of solidarity, to demonstrate their support for the campaign.
All supporters are welcome to join the vigil.
If you can, do please inform the UK Guantanamo Network Convenor, Sara Birch by email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com , to say you will be coming, doing this will be very helpful.
If you are unable to get to the vigils then you can still write to your MP, ask them to visit/join the monthly vigils.
Tell your MP about the situation of the 30 detainees still forcibly held in Guantanamo in the US detention facility."
For your information: The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there:
Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 2nd October 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL: 1pm-3pm
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE,Westminster, London
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest opposite Parliament. Hold banners, placards, and photos of those still detained in the illegal prison. We engage with passers-by, discuss the issue and distribute campaign leaflets, and being a visual presence for those working in Parliament to see.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign says “ Let your Member of Parliament know you are taking part in the network's monthly vigils. Ask them to join you on Parliament Square and stand with you for a while as a show of solidarity, to demonstrate their support for the campaign.
All supporters are welcome to join the vigil. If you can, do please inform the UK Guantanamo Network Convenor, Sara Birch by email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com , to say you will be coming, doing this will be very helpful.
If you are unable to get to the vigils then you can still write to your MP, ask them to visit/join the monthly vigils, and tell them about the situation of the 30 detainees still forcibly held in Guantanamo."
For your information: The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there:
Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 4th September 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL: 1pm-3pm
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE,Westminster, London
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest opposite Parliament holding banners, placards, and photos of those still detained in the illegal prison. We engage with passers-by, discuss the issue and hand out leaflets detailing the campaign actions that can be taken. and being a visual presence for those working in Parliament to see.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign says “ Let your Member of Parliament know you are taking part in the network's monthly vigils. Ask them to join you on Parliament Square and stand with you for a while as a show of solidarity, to demonstrate their support for the campaign.
If you are unable to get to the vigils then you can still write to your MP and tell them about the situation of the 30 detainees still forcibly held in Guantanamo."
All supporters are welcome to join the vigil. If you can, do please inform the UK Guantanamo Network Convenor, Sara Birch by email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com , to say you will be coming, doing this will be very helpful.
Those who attend the 'network' monthly vigil regularly, please bring to the vigil if you have them - your orange jumpsuit, black hood to wear and placard/s to hold.
For your information: The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
PROTEST ACTION - STOP THE TORTURE
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 7th August 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL: 1pm-3pm
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE,Westminster, London
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest opposite Parliament holding banners, placards, and photos of those still detained in the illegal prison. We engage with passers-by, discuss the issue and hand out leaflets detailing the campaign actions that can be taken. and being a visual presence for those working in Parliament to see.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign says “ Let your Member of Parliament know you are taking part in the network's monthly vigils. Ask them to join you on Parliament Square and stand with you for a while as a show of solidarity, to demonstrate their support for the campaign.If you are unable to get to the vigils then you can still write to your MP and tell them about the situation of the 30 detainees still forcibly held in Guantanamo."
Close Guantanamo Now! monthly vigils will continue to take place outside Parliament or near the US Embassy until Guantanamo is closed. The vigils take place on the first Wednesday of each month. Most vigils are held in Parliament Square, with each sixth vigil (whenever possible) to be at a location outside the US Embassy.
All supporters are welcome to turn up on the day and take part in the vigil but if you can, do please inform the UK Guantanamo Network Convenor, Sara Birch by email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com , to say you will be coming, doing this will be very helpful.
For your information: The UK Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 3rd July 2024
MONTHLY SILENT VIGIL - TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: Parliament Square, Westminster, London
This month the UK Guantananmo Network vigil will be on Wednesday 3rd July from 1pm - 3pm, assembling on Parliament Square.
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest displaying campaign banners and placards and holding photos of those 30 men still detained in the notorious illegal US run prison. Come join us and show your support, engage with passers-by, hand out UKGN campaign leaflets that detail the actions people can take, and help build a powerful visual presence calling for the closure of Guantanamo and justice for the victims of torture. The UKGN monthly silent protest vigils are one of a number similarly organised that take place in the US and around the world.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 5th June 2024
MONTHLY SILENT VIGIL - TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: Parliament Square, Westminster, London
This month the UK Guantananmo Network vigil will be on Wednesday 5th June from 1pm - 3pm, assembling on Parliament Square.
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest displaying campaign banners and placards and holding photos of those 30 men still detained in the notorious illegal US run prison. Come join us and show your support, engage with passers-by, hand out UKGN campaign leaflets that detail the actions people can take, and help build a powerful visual presence calling for the closure of Guantanamo and justice for the victims of torture. The UKGN monthly silent protest vigils are one of a number similarly organised that take place in the US and around the world.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 1st May 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL - TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: outside US Embassy, London
This month the UK Guantananmo Network vigil will be on Wednesday 1st May from 1pm - 3pm outside the US Embassy:
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo.
The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest near US Embassy holding photos of those still detained, banners and placards.
Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in the Embassy.
Location this month: outside US Embassy - Please find here a dropped pin on Google Maps for exact location on Riverside Walk of where to meet.
Campaigners meet just to the north of the Nine Elms Pavilion (i.e.upriver). The Nine Elms Pavilion is a gazebo-like structure that looks a bit like a bus stop.
Please open the dropped pin link for exact location: Dropped pin
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO NOW!
WEDNESDAY 3rd April 2024
MONTHLY VIGIL - TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE, London
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo. The vigil takes the form of a two -hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. You are requested to let your MP know you are taking part in the vigil and ask them to come over to the ‘Square’ and stand with you for a while as a show of solidarity, demonstrating their support for our campaign. If you are not able to get to the vigil then you can still write to your MP and tell them about the situation of the 30 detainees still forcibly held in Guantanamo.
Monthly vigils will continue to take place outside Parliament/US Embassy until Guantanamo is closed. The vigils are generally held at Parliament Square, with each sixth vigil (whenever possible) to be at a location near or outside the US Embassy.
For your information: The Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
"END THESE GROSS HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS"
"Last Thursday 11th January shamefully marked the 22 years since the first detainees were transferred in sub-human conditions to Guantanamo. 30 men still remain in detention. Over half of these men have been cleared for release. Other have been subjected to unfair trials. The US government must act to put an end to these gross human rights violations which in addition to devastating the lives of those detained there also undermines any legitimacy that the US can have in criticising the actions of other countries that abuse human right. Abusing human rights can never lead to peace and justice" - Sara Birch Convenor UK Guantanamo Network.
JOIN THE MARCH & RALLY IN LONDON SATURDAY, 20th JAN. 2024
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
ASSEMBLE OLD PALACE YARD 12noon - MARCH TO TRAFALGAR SQUARE FOR RALLY + SPEAKERS at 2pm -
LETTER HAND-IN TO PRIME MINISTER at DOWNING STREET at 4pm
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY - 2023
10th December 2023 marks the 75th anniversaryof one of the world’s important pledges: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR
Today is a special day, one that should remind all nation states around the world, their political leaders, and in fact all of us, that our human rights should be considered sacrosanct and be universally protected. HUMAN RIGHTS DAY on the 10th December 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of one of the world’s important pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) The declaration was agreed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on the 10th December 1948 (GA resolution 217A), a forerunner that influenced many other such treaties. The illegal US prison at Guantanamo Bay prison is still open and holding 30 detainees, most of whom have never committed any crime and have never been charged or faced any sort of trial. Over the years detainees have been abused, humiliated, tortured, kept in solitary confinement, waterboarded and in some cases brutally force-fed when on hunger strike. It is time to close the Guantanamo torture jail and end this sorry chapter in US history. For many years the Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) - truth and justice for victims of torture has called on the USA to CLOSE DOWN GUANTANAMO, and demanded NO TO INDEFINITE DETENTION, and NO TO TORTURE. Along with others, we have consistently cited the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights which specifically states: “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” (Article 3), “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” (Article 5), and “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.” (Article 9). For the US run illegal facility - Guantanamo - with its history of torture, to still be operational incarcerating men indefinitely (8,000 days existence on 6th Dec. 2023), some held without charge or trial and others still held yet cleared for release/transfer, is simply shameful and cruel in the extreme. As so many others have argued, the US has disrespected and flouted international treaties that were set up to protect fundamental human rights associated with freedoms, justice and internationally agreed laws. All should call for US President Joe Biden to close Guantanamo.
US President Joe Biden - Close Guantanamo Now!
PRESIDENT BIDEN CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
8,000 DAYS
PROTEST ACTION - STOP THE TORTURE
WEDNESDAY 6th December 2023
MONTHLY VIGIL - TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE, London
UK Guantanamo Network vigils call for the closure of Guantanamo, the next one takes place at PARLIAMENT SQUARE Wednesday 6th Decembe Time: 1pm – 3pm
A two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament.
Please let your MP know you are taking part in the vigil and ask them to come over to see us while you are there.
If you are not attending you can still write to your MP and tell them about the vigil and ask them to show their support to the vigil.
You can also take a photo of yourself holding up a poster and send it to Andy for display, at info@closeguantanamo.org
The poster to use is available here: https://gtmoclock.com/posters/GTMO-Clock-8000.pdf
The Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
PROTEST ACTION - STOP THE TORTURE
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO
WEDNESDAY 1st November 2023 - MONTHLY VIGIL - TIME: 1pm-3pm
Location: outside US Embassy, London
Assemble: Riverside Walk (see dropped pin for exact location)
The UK Guantanamo Network vigil calls for the closure of Guantanamo and will take place near to the US Embassy Wednesday 1st November Time: 1pm – 3pm Location: outside US Embassy. Find below a dropped pin on Google Maps for the exact location on Riverside Walk where to meet up. Join campaigners just to the north of the Nine Elms Pavilion (i.e.upriver). The Nine Elms Pavilion is a gazebo-like structure that looks a bit like a bus stop. Please open the dropped pin link for exact location: Dropped pin Convenor Sara Birch says "The Guantanamo Network welcomes all who want to see Guantanamo closed down to join them" [1st Nov.]
The Guantanamo Network includes the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
Please note: Parliament vigil scheduled for the 4th October has been postponed until Wednesday 11th October
NEXT SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO VIGIL
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO - STOP THE TORTURE
MONTHLY VIGIL - WEDNESDAY 11th October 2023
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE (Westminster, London)
Assemble: Parliament Square (directly opposite Parliament) from 1pm -3pm
Organised by the Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including: Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign).
Activity/Purpose: A two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. Please let your MP know you are taking part in the vigil and ask them to join the All Party Parliamentary Group for Closing the Guantanamo Detention Facility.
Photos from previous vigils can be found on our website at: www.ukguantanamonetwork.org
All participating organisations in the ’Network’ call on their supporters to join these monthly vigils when they can. Guantanamo Justice Campaign says "The greater the number of campaigners attending, the more the decision makers and the media are forced to take note".
The inhumanity, the horrific torture, abuse and downright cruelty perpetrated at the US run detention centre must end now!” Plan now to join the UK Guantanamo Network at Parliament Square, London, tomorrow - 6th September 2023. If you can also let Guantanamo Network convenor Sara Birch know you are coming, that would be helpful. Email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com
FREE RAVIL MINGAZOV
VIGIL OUTSIDE THE UAE EMBASSY
SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER 2023
Assemble outside the UAE Embassy: 1pm-3pm
Protest on behalf of Ravil Mingazov - Saturday 16th September
TAKE URGENT ACTION FOR RAVIL MINGAZOV ON SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER
This coming Saturday the UK Guantanamo Network is campaigning on behalf of Ravil Mingazov and demand that the former Guantanamo detainee be released from detention in the UAE and reunited with his family in the UK as a matter of urgency.
Campaigners meet up from midday at Pret a Manger to prepare/distribute placards - Pret a Manger - 21-24 Grosvenor Pl, London SW1X 7HN which is just around the corner from the Embassy.
UK Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including: Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign).
All participating organisations in the ’Network’ call on all their supporters who can to join this vigil.
Close Guantanamo! Meeting at the European Parliament - Thursday 28th September 2023 from 9am-12pm
Organisers believe this will be the "most significant gathering ever assembled on Guantanamo" with former prisoners, lawyers and the UN Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms while Countering Terrorism.
PRISONER 441 INVITES YOU/ CLOSE GUANTANAMO/ Thursday 28th September 2023
Time: 09:00 - 12:00/ Location: European Parliament - Spinelli 1G2
Interpretation: DE/EN/FR/IT/ES/PT
For further details on this event and for guidance as to how you can join the meeting on-line visit:
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO - STOP THE TORTURE
NEXT MONTHLY VIGILS
WEDNESDAY 2nd August & 6th September 2023
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE (Westminster, London)
Assemble: Parliament Square (directly opposite Parliament) from 1pm -3pm
Organised by the UK Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including: Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign). All participating organisations in the ’Network’ call on their supporters to join these monthly vigils when they can. Guantanamo Justice Campaign says "The greater the number of campaigners attending, the more the decision makers and the media are forced to take note".
The inhumanity, the horrific torture, abuse and downright cruelty perpetrated at the US run detention centre must end now!
Plan now to join the UK Guantanamo Network at Parliament Square, London, on 2nd August 2023.
If you can also let Guantanamo Network convenor Sara Birch know you are coming, that would be helpful. Email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com
FURTHER VIGILS ARE TO TAKE PLACE: OCT./NOV./DEC 2023 - details tbc
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO - STOP THE TORTURE
MONTHLY VIGIL - WEDNESDAY 5th July 2023
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE (Westminster, London)
Assemble: Parliament Square (directly opposite Parliament) from 1pm -3pm
Organised by the UK Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including: Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign). All participating organisations in the ’Network’ call on their supporters to join these monthly vigils when they can. Guantanamo Justice Campaign says "The greater the number of campaigners attending, the more the decision makers and the media are forced to take note".
The inhumanity, the horrific torture, abuse and downright cruelty perpetrated at the US run detention centre must end now!
Plan now to join the UK Guantanamo Network at Parliament Square, London, on 5th July 2023.
If you can also let Guantanamo Network convenor Sara Birch know you are coming, that would be helpful. Email: sarabirch50@hotmail.com
FURTHER VIGILS ARE TO TAKE PLACE: details tbc
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO VIGIL
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO - STOP THE TORTURE
MONTHLY VIGIL
WEDNESDAY 3rd MAY 2023
Location: US EMBASSY (London)
Assemble: 1pm-3pm
Organised by the UK Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including: Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign)
Launch of 'All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Closing of the Guantánamo Detention Facility'
See statement below - AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL PRESS RELEASE
UK/Guantánamo: new all-party parliamentary group to call for notorious camp's closure
‘By forming the APPG, MPs and peers are sending a strong message to the US administration’ - Sara Birch
A newly-formed group of parliamentarians is set to campaign for the closure of the notorious US detention facility at Guantánamo Bay and will have its inaugural meeting next week.
The “All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Closing of the Guantánamo Detention Facility” - co-chaired by Layla Moran MP (Lib Dem) and Chris Law MP (SNP) - will meet at 17:30 on Monday 24 April in Committee Room 5 (Palace of Westminster) to launch its inaugural meeting.
At the meeting, the group of MPs and peers will hear an update on the current situation at Guantánamo, which still holds 30 detainees, 16 of them cleared for release but still detained. The meeting is expected to be attended by former Guantánamo detainee Mohamedou Ould Slahi.
Sara Birch, Convenor of the UK Guantanamo Network, said:
“It’s heartening that parliamentarians are taking a stand to call for the closure of the Guantánamo Detention Facility.
“By forming the APPG, MPs and peers are sending a strong message to the US administration that, after more than 20 years of detention without trial, it’s high time to end this affront to the rule of law.”
The new APPG will comprise the following members from both Houses of Parliament:
House of Commons
Layla Moran MP (Lib Dem), Chris Law MP (SNP), Sir Peter Bottomley MP (Con), John McDonnell MP (Lab), Caroline Lucas MP (Green), Richard Burgon MP (Lab), Rachael Maskell MP (Lab), Andy Slaughter MP (Lab)
House of Lords
Helena Kennedy (Lab), Shami Chakrabarti (Lab), Sayeeda Warsi (Con), John Hendy (Labour)
Guantanamo Network and Mohamedou Ould Slahi
The formation of the new parliamentary body has been supported over the past 12 months by a coalition of human rights, legal and campaigning groups working together with the UK Guantanamo Network. Their objective is to highlight to UK and US politicians the disastrous impact of Guantánamo on the rights of the remaining detainees, as well as the highly negative impact of the detention centre on the USA’s human rights record, as well as that of allied countries.
This initiative was prompted by a major speaking tour in March 2022 by Mohamedou Ould Slahi, author of the best-selling memoir “Guantánamo Diary”. His incarceration and torture at Guantánamo featured in the 2021 film The Mauritanian, directed by Kevin McDonald and starring Jodie Foster, Tahar Rahim and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The UK Guantanamo Network is supported by numerous Amnesty UK groups and activists, by the Guantánamo Justice Campaign, the Close Guantánamo Campaign, the London Guantánamo Campaign, and Freedom from Torture.
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO - STOP THE TORTURE
MONTHLY VIGIL
WEDNESDAY 5th April 2023
Location: PARLIAMENT SQUARE, Westminster, London
Assemble: 1pm-3pm
Organised by the Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including: Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign)
"It is now more important then ever to join together to show our solidarity to those still detained in Guantanamo and to call for the abuse of their human rights to end. Also to call for justice for those who have previously been detained in Guantanamo”......"our protest will be replicated in five other locations around the world and we are encouraging human rights activists around the world to set up their own monthly vigils in their cities on the first Wednesday of every month until Guantanamo is closed". (UK Guantanamo Network)
"The greater the number of campaigners attending at Parliament Square, the more the decision makers and the media are forced to take note. The inhumanity, the horrific torture, abuse and downright cruelty perpetrated at the US run detention centre must end now!” (Guantanamo Justice Campaign)
The vigils are a two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. If you can, do let your MP know you are taking part in the vigil and ask them to come over to see us while you are there.
Stand in solidarity with the wives and families of Guantanamo's detainees
International Women's Day
Make sure you read this blog today by Prof. Susan Edwards
IWD 23: Solidarity with the wives and families of Guantanamo’s detainees (barcouncil.org.uk)
IWD 23: Solidarity with the wives and families of Guantanamo’s detainees
A guest blog by Professor Susan Edwards about the women affected by Guantánamo prison.
- and join the VIGIL at Parliament Square TODAY 8th March 2023 - 1pm-3pm
Within reach of central London? then head for Parliament Square and join the Guantanamo Network VIGIL taking place TODAY! Guest speakers - VICTORIA BRITTAIN author, journalist, and KATE HUDSON General Secretary CND and author, introduced by Guantanamo Network convenor, SARA BIRCH
Full details for the SHUT DOWN GITMO VIGIL - see immediately below
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO VIGIL
International Women's Day
WEDNESDAY 8th MARCH 2023
Location: Parliament Square, Westminster, London
Assemble: 1pm-3pm
Guest speakers: 2pm
VICTORIA BRITTAIN author, campaigner, journalist
KATE HUDSON General Secretary CND
Organised by the Guantanamo Network ( A network of organisations including:
Amnesty International, Close Guantanamo,
Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, and London Guantanamo Campaign)
"The UK Guantanamo network stands in solidarity on International Women’s Day with the wives, mothers, children and families of Guantanamo detainees, who have been forgotten and whose lives have been fractured and broken by the lawlessness of the US and Guantanamo Prison where 32 men remain and those that have been released many have spent nearly twenty years incarcerated and cruelly imprisoned indefinitely without trial”.
Guest speakers:
VICTORIA BRITTAIN, author, campaigner, journalist - with 20 years experience working at the Guardian where she became associate foreign editor. Her books include Shadow Lives: The Forgotten Women of the War on Terror (2013) and The Meaning of Waiting - Tales from the War on Terror, Prisoners Wives Verbatim (2010), and of course Enemy Combatant (2006), as a contributor.
KATE HUDSON, General Secretary Campaign For Nuclear Disarmament (CND), leading anti-nuclear and anti-war campaigner nationally and internationally, author of ‘CND Now More than Ever: The Story of a Peace Movement’
The Guantanamo Network welcomes all who want to see Guantanamo closed down to join them on Wednesday. The vigil will be a two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. G-Network says "Please let your MP know you are taking part in the vigil and ask them to come over to see us while you are there. If you are not attending you can still write to your MP and tell them about the vigil and ask them to show their support “.
For further details on the work of the UK Guantanamo Network please visit: www.ukguantanamonetwork.org
The event is organised by the Guantanamo Network - organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW! VIGIL
Wednesday 15th February 2023
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: Parliament Square
Activity/Purpose: A two-hour static protest near to US Embassy holding photos of those still detained and placards.
Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament.
Vigils are held monthly either at Parliament Square, or the US Embassy in London, UK
Organised by the Guantanamo Network
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO
CLOSE GUANTANAMO MARCH & RALLY
Saturday 14th January 2023
ASSEMBLE: 11.30pm Old Palace Yard opposite Parliament
MARCH ROUTE: Parliament Square - Whitehall - Trafalgar Square
RALLY: 2pm at TRAFALGAR SQUARE (North Terrace) in front of the National Gallery
PETITION UK PRIME MINISTER: 4.30pm - 10 Downing Street, Whitehall, Westminster
Location: Meet Old Palace Yard near to Parliament Square. The MARCH will circle PARLIAMENT SQUARE and proceed up WHITEHALL to TRAFALGAR SQUARE for RALLY with speakers. Guantanamo Network says "We are aiming to have 35 campaigners dressed in orange jumpsuits to represent the 35 men still detained in Guantanamo”. All are welcome to attend.
Speakers at Trafalgar Square will include ANDY WORTHINGTON author ’The Guantanamo Files', TRACY DOIG - Freedom from Torture, LISE ROSSI - Amnesty International, and IMAM SULIMAN GANI. A statement from former Guantanamo prisoner OMAR DEGHAYES will be read out at the RALLY. Other speakers invited include CHRIS LAW MP, LAYLA MORAN MP , Kevin MacDonald - film maker, and representatives from organisations participating in the Guantanamo Network will also speak. A GJC activist will read her most recent poem on Guantanamo. JOHN McDONNELL MP sends his best wishes to all participating in the march and rally, and to everybody involved in the campaign. The campaign continues to receive his full support.
The event is organised by the Guantanamo Network - organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO MARCH & RALLY Saturday 14th January 2023
The Guantanamo Network welcomes all who want to see Guantanamo shut down to join them in LONDON on Saturday 14th January and call for the closure of the Guantanamo detention facility run by the USA. Campaigners dressed in Gitmo orange boiler suits and black hoods will march through central London.
Assembling at OLD PALACE YARD opposite Parliament, campaigners will walk in single file around PARLIAMENT SQUARE, up WHITEHALL, past DOWNING STREET, and on to TRAFALGAR SQUARE.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his government will be petitioned, campaign letters will be handed in to the Prime Minister at 10 DOWNING STREET at 4.30pm, along with a rally to be held in TRAFALGAR SQUARE at 2pm.
The UK Guantanamo Network aims to achieve a good number of campaigners in orange jumpsuits and hoods marching through central London on the day. If you wish to march in an orange jumpsuit and hood please inform Sara Birch, Convenor of the Guantanamo Network at: sarabirch50@hotmail.com
MARKING GUANTANAMO’S 21st ANNIVERSARY - CAGE EVENT
Details of this event as provided by the Cage Team:
Marking Guantanamo’s 21st anniversary, CAGE invites you for what promises to be a fascinating and revealing discussion between ordinary men who faced extraordinary circumstances, and emerged stronger in their faith and resilience.
Join us to
🔸 Hear the exclusive testimony of Abdul Latif Nasser who spent 20 yearsin Guantanamo without charge.
🔸 Listen to Ahmed Errachidi, once a key leader of the resistance inside Guantanamo, turned best-selling author and top chef upon his release.
🔸 Learn from Moazzam Begg, CAGE’s plan to close Guantanamo once and for all.
Book your FREE ticket NOW
🗓 Saturday 14th Jan 2023
🕕 6PM
📍 South London
Book your FREE ticket > https://event.cage.ngo/
[LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE]
We look forward to seeing you there,
The CAGE team
'CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW! - VIGILS CONTINUE IN 2023
Next monthly VIGIL - FEBRUARY 2023 - DATE tbc - WATCH THIS SPACE
Time: 1pm – 3pm Location: Parliament Square, London
NEXT - 'CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW! VIGIL
Wednesday 7th December 2022
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: Parliament Square, London
Activity/Purpose: A two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those 35 men still detained in the infamous US run concentration camp. The Guantanamo Network organisations call upon you to join their regular vigils currently held monthly - come along and hold up a campaign placard calling for President Biden to speed up the process to close Guantanamo. 20 of the men held in the infamous, illegal, concentration camp have been cleared for release or transfer, yet are still cruelly detained there. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets detailing what actions people can take. Come along and join us and be part of a powerful visual presence to those working in Parliament. We expect the UK Prime Minister to be in the House of Commons when we are outside on Parliament Square. We urge everyone to encourage their MPs to come across to our vigil, to demonstrate their support for the campaign.
Organised by the Guantanamo Network
For your information:
The Guantanamo Network consists of the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
NEXT - 'CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
DEMONSTRATION
Wednesday 2nd November 2022
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: US Embassy, London
Activity/Purpose: A two-hour static protest near/opposite US EMBASSY holding photos of those men still detained in Guantanamo prison, and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. We will be asking everyone to encourage their MPs to come and talk to us.
Organised by the Guantanamo Network
For your information:
The Guantanamo Network consists of the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
NEXT - 'CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW! VIGIL
Wednesday 5th October 2022
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: Parliament Square, London
Activity/Purpose: A two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. We will be asking everyone to encourage their MPs to come and talk to us.
Organised by the Guantanamo Network
For your information:
The Guantanamo Network consists of the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
SILENT VIGIL - PARLIAMENT SQUARE
CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
Wednesday 7th September 2022
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: Parliament Square, London
Activity/Purpose: A two-hour static protest opposite Parliament holding photos of those still detained and placards. Engaging with passers-by, handing out leaflets with actions to take and being a visual presence to those working in Parliament. We will be asking everyone to encourage their MPs to come and talk to us.
Organised by the Guantanamo Network
For your information:
The Guantanamo Network consists of the following organisations working closely together to call for the immediate closure of Guantanamo and justice for those currently (or formerly) detained there: Close Guantanamo, Freedom from Torture, Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign, Amnesty International.
The Network states, "Further vigils and demonstrations will be scheduled for 2023 until Guantánamo is closed and there is justice for those detained there. Specifically we will be organising a march/demonstration to mark the 21st anniversary of the opening of Guantanamo in January 2023 (date of this march/demonstration to be confirmed)”.
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
10th DECEMBER
USA MUST CLOSE GUANTANAMO
NOW!
RENDITION AND COMPLICITY IN TORTURE
Role of UK intelligence officials to be examined
Scotland Yard has confirmed that a senior investigating officer has begun examining the role of UK intelligence officials during questioning of a prisoner at CIA “black sites”. Full story: here
Final report: Investigations into CIA torture flights
Police investigating the use of Scottish airports by CIA torture flights have filed a final report to prosecutors “more than five years after the probe began”. Prosecutors could now level charges against US officials or organisations involved in the flights. Lord advocate Frank Mulholland ordered the police inquiry in 2013. It has been reported that politicians have “welcomed the breakthrough” but also demanded Mulholland’s successor James Wolffe outline “where the investigation is going”. Full story: here
British Government misses own torture inquiry deadline
Five senior MPs and peers who have served in the armed forces – Tories Andrew Mitchell, David Davis and Crispin Blunt, the former Liberal Democrat leader Lord Ashdown and Labour’s Dan Jarvis, wrote to May to say that an inquiry was needed in order to learn from the lessons of the past. Labour said that it would hold an inquiry, if elected, if the government failed to do so.
The shadow attorney general, Shami Chakrabarti, said: “The government has now failed to meet its own deadline for a response to cross-party calls for a judge-led inquiry. At a time when the US president has endorsed the use of waterboarding ‘and a hell of a lot worse’, it has never been more important that the UK stand firm against the use of torture and mistreatment.”
Full article here
Debate in Parliament: Detainee Mistreatment & Rendition - 2nd July 2018 - Hse of Commons Chamber.
See debate here
Reprieve: Torture Inquiry long overdue
Reprieve director Maya Foa said: “The only way for the UK to regain moral authority on this issue is to fully examine and expose past wrongs.
See article here
NGOs deliver Petition to UK Prime Minister Theresa May
On 6th August 2018, representatives of Amnesty International, Freedom From Torture, Liberty and Reprieve delivered a 27,000-signature petition to Theresa May demanding she restore her predecessor David Cameron’s broken promise to hold an inquiry into British complicity in the use of torture by the US.
See article: here
Watch Reprieve's video: here
On 28th June 2018 the UK Intelligence & Security Committee of Parliament published two reports -
"Detainee Mistreatment and Rendition: 2001-2010" and "Detainee Mistreatment and Rendition: Current Issues" These contain the findings and conclusions of the Committee's inquiry into detainee mistreatment and rendition.
See statements and access the two reports on ISC webpage: here
Amnesty International director Kate Allen has said: “A curtain has been lifted to reveal some of the grisly reality of UK officials’ involvement in torture, but now we need to see a proper inquiry into it.” But she told the Star that the ISC remit had been “very much controlled. They are appointed by the prime minister. They don’t have the power to subpoena witnesses, they only get to see evidence and witnesses that the prime minister approves of, so it’s not independent.” Ms Allen added: “We can have no confidence that [British involvement in torture] won’t happen again until we understand exactly what did take place.”
"Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) continues to hold the view that there is an urgent need for an independent, judge-led public inquiry to be set up to look into the allegations of complicity by UK Security Service agencies in torture abroad. We have repeatedly raised this as one of our key demands with successive UK Prime Ministers, the previous Gibson Inquiry as well as the current UK Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC), and have regularly highlighted the issue at our protest events, whether held at Parliament Square, Downing Street, or MI6.
Freedom From Torture chief executive Sonya Sceats has said: “Britain needs to stand up against torture, not be complicit. The Prime Minister must act to ensure this can never happen again.”
DEMONSTRATE - LONDON
SATURDAY - 8th JANUARY 2022
20 YEARS OF GUANTANAMO: CLOSE IT NOW!
JOIN THE PROTEST MARCH - VOLUNTEER TO BE ONE OF A NUMBER OF ACTIVISTS IN ORANGE JUMPSUITS AT PARLIAMENT (WESTMINSTER, LONDON) FOR SATURDAY 8th JANUARY 2022, CALLING FOR GUANTANAMO TO BE SHUT DOWN - volunteer to take part in the protest march (walking single file) - contact sarabirch50@hotmail.com
JOIN THE RALLY AT 2pm in TRAFALGAR SQUARE - 8th January 2022
Speaker platform includes OMAR DEGHAYES former Guantanamo prisoner , JOHN McDONNELL MP, ANDY WORTHINGTON author and campaigning journalist, KATE HUDSON CND, Imam SULIAMAN GHANI, and others…...
- see more below!
GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN (GJC)
Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) meetings and events, for the present, take place online. However, we ask all activists and supporters to note the 'street' protest actions currently taking place, and we request all who can, to attend and support them. We will continue to monitor the situation with regard to the coronavirus. Campaign actions feature on our HOME and EVENTS page .
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 10th Dec. 2021
On Human Rights Day 2021, Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC), formerly the Save Shaker Aamer Campaign (SSAC), is again calling on the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, to make urgent representations to the US President, Joe Biden, to close the illegal prison known as Guantanamo that operates outside of international law, and to end the practice of indefinite detention and all methods of torture.
On December 10th, International Human Rights Day, people all over the world mark the day when the inalienable human rights of everyone were enshrined in the United Nations Declaration of Universal Human Rights. The prohibition of torture is a key principle of international law, a principle deeply embedded in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), European Convention on Human Rights 1950, and the UN Torture Convention 1984.
GJC's letter to the UK Prime Minister includes the following points:
Article 9 of the UNDHR says “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.” It is clear that US policy in respect of the infamous Guantanamo prison is outside of international law. Other articles, such as 10, 11, stress ‘entitlement in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal’, and the ‘right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law’.
There are 39 men still imprisoned in Guantanamo, more than two-thirds have never been formally charged with a crime. Around 13 prisoners have been cleared for release and this backlog of repatriation urgently needs resolving. Fears are being voiced that some of the prisoners may well end up dying in Guantanamo, innocent men, tortured and denied their human rights for nigh on two decades, without ever being charged with any crime. It is simply crazy that anyone should still be forcibly held there and that such a prison, that has devastated so many lives, still remains open way beyond the reach of international law. This cannot be called justice!
All prisoners cleared for release should be immediately released back to a place of safety, to their families. The US President must appoint someone to tackle this task and set deadlines. Released prisoners should be provided with all the support and care that they would need to recover, from the trauma and damage done from the long periods of abuse, torture and incarceration without charge or trial, so that they can renew and rebuild their lives. That should include genuine caring and realistic plans for rehabilitation or reintegration.
GJC's letter to PM Boris Johnson also stated "Guantanamo’s continued existence is a travesty of justice. President Joe Biden clearly needs heads of state, offering him full support in this matter, to close the detention facility. Talks behind closed doors are not enough" and called upon the UK Prime Minister to "stand up for human rights law and speak out in public on these issues", as should members of his government, and all Members of Parliament.
In addition to the above, GJC restated its view that the UK Prime Minister and his government should establish an independent judge-led public inquiry into all allegations that the UK security services were complicit in the abuse and torture of UK citizens and residents abroad. The shameful ordeal of those subjected to abduction, rendition, torture, abuse and years of detention without trial, must never happen again. Justice requires accountability.
See below - text of a GJC letter published in the Morning Star today 10.12.2021
Join January protest to shut down Gitmo jail
TODAY is UN Human Rights Day, the day the United Nations general assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
The UDHR proclaims the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. The UDHR is the most translated document in the world but looking around our planet one would not think so, in light of the torture, inequalities, abuses and injustices taking place in so many countries.
The 2021 theme of Human Rights Day is “Equality - reducing inequalities, advancing human rights,” and it is in this context that I wish to remind readers that one of the great injustices of recent years, the illegal Guantanamo Bay prison, is still open and holding 39 prisoners, most of whom have never committed any crime and have never been charged or faced any sort of trial.
Over the years prisoners have been abused, humili- ated, tortured, kept in solitary confinement for long periods,
waterboarded and in some cases brutally force-fed when on hunger strike. It is time to close the Guantanamo torture jail and end this sorry chapter in US history.
The Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC), formerly the Save Shaker Aamer Campaign, calls on the British government to carry out its declared policy that Guantanamo Prison should be closed and those prisoners who have never been charged be released immediately.
This means that the government must make meaningful and forceful representations to the US administration to this effect, without delay. We urge Star readers and their friends to write to the PM and copy to the Foreign Secretary accordingly, or write direct to US President Joe Biden.
The Guantanamo Network, which comprises GJC, Amnesty, Close Guantanamo and Freedom from Torture, is organising a major march and rally January 8 to mark 20 years since Gitmo jail was opened. There will be 100 demonstrators dressed in Gitmo uni- form of orange boiler suits and black hoods, marching through central London and petitions and letters will be handed in to 10 Downing Street, plus a rally in Trafalgar Square. Anyone who would like to participate in the event or would like further information, please email: gjcampaign2016@gmail.com
DEMONSTRATION - WESTMINSTER, LONDON Call for the closure of Guantanamo
Sat. 8th Jan. 2022
Saturday 8th January 2022– DEMONSTRATION outside Parliament (Westminster, LONDON) calling for the closure of Guantánamo and for justice for those still detained/former detainees.
The 11th January 2022 will mark the 20th anniversary of the opening of Guantánamo. The demonstration will take place outside Parliament on the afternoon of Saturday 8th January, to mark the 20th Anniversary of the opening of Guantanamo on the 11th January (2002).
PLAN NOW TO BE IN LONDON ON THE 8th JAN 2022
It is understood that The Brighton Amnesty Society is already planning to organise a coach to go up to London that day with students from their Amnesty Group. They say "We have organised a coach in the past – let’s do that again and make sure there are 100 of us in orange jumpsuits outside Parliament the weekend before the 20th anniversary to demand the closure of Guantánamo and justice for those still detained there/those who have been detained there. We are trying to gather the names of 100 activists willing to take part in this campaigning action – please be one of them if you can!"
Guantanamo 20 Years After Conference - University of Brighton
Friday 12th/Saturday 13th November 2021– a two day on-line international conference hosted by the University of Brighton: Guantánamo: 20 Years After.
See PRESS STATEMENT further below, and see a link to the on-line conference on Guantanamo here: Guantánamo: 20 Years After (brighton.ac.uk).
The Lewes Amnesty Group is taking action in collaboration with the Brighton University Amnesty Society over the coming months to demand the closure of Guantánamo – please join us. £10 tickets available – all are encouraged to attend this academic/activist conference which will include ten academic presentations and three panel workshops by experts in the field. Key speakers will include Mohamedou Ould Slahi (formerly detained in Guantanamo without charge or trial for 14 years) and Andy Worthington (journalist, activist and Guantánamo authority). Lawyers currently representing those still detained will be taking part in the panel debates and NGO activists including Daphne Evitiar (Amnesty International USA’s Director of Security with Human Rights) and Tracy Doig (Head of Accountability and International Advocacy, Freedom from Torture) will also be taking part in the conference.
Organisers request that you let others know about the conference.
You can find out more about the on-line conference and
All will find the Conference highly informative - a vital experience for students, academics, and all those campaigning for the closure of Guantanamo
See below Lewes Amnesty International's MEDIA RELEASE - feedback on last Saturday's vigil (6th Nov. 2021) and leaflet session in Lewes
Lewes Amnesty vigil for those still detained in Guantánamo – 20 Years on.
LEWES Amnesty Campaigners were joined by other Amnesty campaigners from the South East on Saturday 6th November to protest against the continued detention of 39 men in Guantanamo (some of whom without charge or trial). Members of the Brighton and Hove and Haywards Heath Amnesty groups were amongst those who headed to Lewes to join the protest. Wearing orange jumpsuits, the campaigners held a silent vigil for one hour whilst holding photos of each of the men who are still detained. They were keen to raise awareness about the continued operation of the illegal detention centre where dozens of men continue to languish without ever having been charged or faced a trial. Being held without charge or trial is outside the rule of law and is a practice which has no place in a modern democracy and is a practice that is unreservedly condemned by the United Nations.
Many of those passing by the vigil were shocked to learn that Guantánamo was still open and several people joined the vigil on the spot – some even putting on orange jumpsuits to join those already taking action.
The campaigners also wanted to show the detainees, all of whom have not seen their family members during their detention, that they have not been forgotten. At a recent cinema screening of ‘The Mauritanian’ at Lewes Depot Mohamedou Ould Slahi (who was detained for fourteen years without charge or trial before being unconditionally released) explained how important it is for those still detained to feel that those in the outside world are still aware of their cruel and unjust plight.
Mohamedou Ould Slahi will be one of the keynote speakers to open an international on-line conference on Guantánamo being hosted by the University of Brighton on Friday 12th and Saturday 13th November. The conference, which has attracted a wide range of expert participants from around the world, including lawyers who are representing those still detained in Guantánamo. For details of the conference visit: Guantánamo: 20 Years After (brighton.ac.uk). Sara Birch, one of the organisers of the vigil, said “It is likely that the detainees will become aware of this action and so by taking this action at the very least we will show these men that they have not been forgotten by the outside world. Amnesty International aims to shine a light on the darkness whenever and wherever human rights violations are taking place and this is what we were aiming to do last Saturday on behalf of those men still detained in Guantanamo”.
Saturday 6th November 2021
Guantanamo Justice Campaign leaflet session
EASTBOURNE
If you live local to Eastbourne, Sussex (UK) do volunteer time leafleting in the town on the Sat. 6th Nov. 2021. Local GJC supporters will be meeting up at ‘Bankers’ Corner’, Terminus Road (Eastbourne) not far from the rail station at 12 o’clock, with further leafleting at ‘Wishing Tower slopes’ on the seafront at 2pm.
Film screening THE MAURITANIAN
Tuesday 2nd November 2021
Screening of The Mauritanian
at The Depot Cinema with Q&A session.
Screening of The Mauritanian at Lewes Depot at 7pm on Tuesday 2nd November 2021. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session with the film’s director Kevin MacDonald, Mohamedou Ould Slahi. Mohamedou is a former Guantánamo detainee forcibly held for 14 years in Guantanamo, detained without charge or trial - the film follows his personal story) and Nancy Hollander (Mohamedou’s US lawyer). Check out tickets available at: Lewes Depot | Lewes Depot Cinema, Restaurant, Cafe and Bar
Depot Cinema says
The Mauritanian
Post-screening Q&A with the film's director Kevin MacDonald, Mohamedou Ould Slahi and lawyer Nancy Hollander.
The Lewes Group of Amnesty International and the Brighton University Amnesty Society are delighted to be supporting the University of Brighton’s screening of Kevin Macdonald's The Mauritanian at Depot, as a prelude to the University of Brighton’s international online conference on ‘Guantanamo – 20 Years On’, which will be taking place on the 12th and 13th of November.
Captured by the U.S. Government, Mohamedou Ould Slahi (Tahar Rahim) languishes in prison for years without charge or trial. Losing all hope, Slahi finds allies in defense attorney Nancy Hollander (Jodie Foster) and her associate Teri Duncan (Shailene Woodley). Together they face countless obstacles in a desperate pursuit for justice. Their controversial advocacy, along with evidence uncovered by formidable military prosecutor, Lt. Colonel Stuart Couch (Benedict Cumberbatch), eventually reveals a shocking and far reaching conspiracy.
The People's Assembly national demonstration
Saturday 26th JUNE
GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN activists and supporters who can are urged to attend the People's Assembly National Demonstration in London and join up with the LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN at midday.
LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN are joining the People's Assembly national demonstration on Saturday 26 June https://thepeoplesassembly.org.uk/, midday, to raise awareness about Guantánamo. That date is also International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. If you would like to join us - in an orange jumpsuit, which we can supply, or handing out leaflets - please get in touch."
Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/379910286772908/
Assemble: Portland Place (steps of All Souls Church, Langham Place), near BBC, at 12 noon
LGC activists will be protesting in orange jumpsuits to raise awareness about Guantanamo and the remaining 40 prisoners forcibly held there, so do remember to take along your own, otherwise please offer to hand out leaflets on the campaign to shut down the US torture prison.
INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT
OF THE VICTIMS OF TORTURE
Note that the 26th JUNE is also the INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT OF THE VICTIMS OF TORTURE. It is a moment to remember and highlight the terrible injustices associated with the setting up of US secret illegal prisons and those more visible such as Guantanamo, and other sites used - such as Abu Ghraib, and Kandahar. In circumstances where the pain and suffering of so many people, victims of human rights violations, abuse and mistreatment, kidnapping, rendition, and torture, and imprisonment without charge or trial, has been so great. Our call must be loud and clear 'USA SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO NOW!'
* See a selection of GJC campaign POSTERS/PLACARDS - see below - if possible, do print one of them, we suggest A2, A3 or A4 size, and take it along with you to the People's Assembly national DEMONSTRATION on 26th June.
* You could also take a photograph of yourself, with friends and other campaigners holding up the placards, either at the DEMONSTRATION, or when you can.
* You could send your protest photo to Guantanamo Justice Campaign for display on our website to show your support for the campaign's demand, US President BIDEN must 'CLOSE DOWN GUANTANAMO'
* Send your protest photos to: gjcampaign2016@gmail.com
LGC US EMBASSY DEMONSTRATIONS 'SHUT GUANTANAMO'
RESUME - JULY 2021
London Guantanamo Campaign says: "Since April 2020, our monthly "Shut Guantánamo!" demos, which we have held since 2007 outside the US Embassy in London, have gone online with people contributing images and messages that we have shared on Facebook and Twitter - thank you for your contributions! Due to the easing of restrictions in England, we will be resuming our in-person demonstrations outside the US Embassy on Thursday 1st July (12-2pm). Please join us if you can."
See video of some of LGC protests outside the previous US Embassy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVZMahEpVf8
LEWES AMNESTY GROUP - HOLDS SILENT VIGIL IN BRIGHTON
Lewes Amnesty group, and supported by others, held a silent protest (29th May 2021) standing in orange jumpsuits and black hoods. Campaigners gathered outside Churchill Square and residents and visitors to the town had the opportunity to find out more when campaigners demonstrated outside the Brighton shopping centre. The action raised awareness that hundreds of prisoners had been held over many years at the US run illegal prison, where 40 men are still forcibly held. Some prisoners have been cleared for release, but not released, some have been waiting for 10 years after being cleared for release. The group’s campaign banner called for the prison to be closed down, campaigners stood dignified and silent while holding photos of the prisoners still held there.
A spokesperson for Lewes Amnesty has said "It was great to have members of different organisations including the Guantanamo Justice Campaign, Amnesty Groups, Brighton University students and other campaigning organisation working together on this today."
Article in local Sussex newspaper reported on the campaign action:
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/19338201.guantanamo-bay-protesters-gather-brighton-prison/
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO online action
Thurs. 1st April 2021
Joint action by the following organisations:
LEWES AMNESTY GROUP LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN CLOSE GUANTANAMO FREEDOM FROM TORTURE GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN
1st APRIL 2021 is the official launch day of the film 'THE MAURITANIAN'.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign supporters are requested to make every effort to take part in this jointly supported 'SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO' protest 'photo' action, taken to coincide with the launch of 'The Mauritanian'. You are encouraged to use the placard design provided - see below - or design one similar. Take a photo of yourself holding the placard so the message can be read clearly - approach friends and contacts do the same. The more photos sent in the better!
You are asked to send your photo/s to info@amnestylewes.org
As a GJC supporter we would appreciate you sending a copy of your photo/s to Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) as well - please send to: gjcampaign2016@gmail.com - we will then place your photo on our GJC website (GALLERY page).
DO FEEL FREE TO SEND TO GJC AT ANY TIME photos of yourself holding up a placard with an appropriate message:
US MUST CLOSE GUANTANAMO or SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO or BIDEN MUST CLOSE GUANTANAMO NOW!
ALTERNATIVELY SEND US A PHOTO OF YOUR OWN MADE
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO PLACARD OR MESSAGE FOR DISPLAY ON OUR WEBSITE
OR COPY, PRINT AND USE THE ONE HERE BELOW
SHUT DOWN GUANTANAMO online action
Thurs. 1st April 2021
MARK THE DAY WHEN GUANTANAMO WAS OPENED
11th JANUARY 2021 - 19 YEARS - NOT ONE MORE DAY
END THE TORTURE - CLOSE GUANTANAMO
TAKE ACTION AND JOIN THE ONLINE EVENTS
SEE ALL DETAILS AND JOINING LINKS BELOW
On the 11th January 2021, Guantanamo will have been open for 19 long years. This brutal US concentration camp still operates outside of international law. It is inhumane, illegal, cruel and despicable to incarcerate people, deny them their human rights, and then hold them indefinitely without charge or trial.
TAKE ACTION NOW! see the requests below for YOU to take action AND join the ONLINE EVENTS taking place on the day - details and links for joining the events - organised or hosted by several campaigning organisations - see further below.
SEND LETTERS/ EMAILS - DEMAND AN END TO THIS BRUTALITY
Write to US President elect JOE BIDEN and Vice-President-elect KAMALA HARRIS. Make sure your letter includes the demand that BIDEN prioritises the closure of Guantanamo.
Write to them at:
*Joe Biden President-Elect United States of America, 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20230
*Kamala Harris Vice President-Elect United States of America, 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20230
When addressing your letter/s use, Dear President-Elect Joe Biden, and/or Dear Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris. Please also remember to state your name, full postal address, and date the letter
You could also try sending your letter/email to US President elect Joe Biden (prior to his inauguration) via this link: Send Biden a question or two, or paste in your letter, using the form you can find here at https://go.joebiden.com/page/s/contact-us
Write to UK Prime Minister BORIS JOHNSON. Stress he take appropriate actions to help bring about a swift closure of the illegal prison - Guantanamo - and along with closure, call for justice for all the victims of torture.
Write to PM Boris Johnson, and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab) at:
*UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, 10 Downing Street, London, SW1A 2AA or email the PM, using the link: https://email.number10.gov.uk/
*UK Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab MP, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, King Charles St, , London, SW1A 2AH, or email: fcocorrespondence@fco.gov.uk
GUANTANAMO - 19th ANNIVERSARY
11th Jan 2021 - ONLINE EVENTS/ ACTIONS
LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN - DAY OF PROTEST AND SOLIDARITY
Tomorrow, 11 January 2021, the detention camp at Guantánamo Bay turns 19. Forty prisoners remain, mostly without charge or trial throughout this period.
LGC says "Please join us for a day of protest and solidarity online by taking a photo/making a video/making a banner/sharing your comment with us throughout the day via Facebook on our page https://www.facebook.com/London-Guantánamo-Campaign-114010671973111/ or Twitter @shutguantanamo with your message to Joe Biden to close Guantánamo when he takes office. If you do not use Facebook or Twitter, please email us your message and pictures: london.gtmo@gmail.com and we will share them for you. The London Guantánamo Campaign is not on Instagram but please feel free to get the conversation going there as well with your friends. Please use the hashtag #GitmoIs19
If you are on Twitter, please join us for a Twitter storm on 11 January at 8-9pm GMT (3-4pm EST). Suggested tweets will be available on our website shortly before on the day. #GitmoIs19
http://londonguantanamocampaign.blogspot.com/2021/01/nineteen-years-of-guantanamo.html
LEWES AMNESTY GROUP - GUANTANAMO ANNIVERSARY - ONLINE TALK
19th Guantanamo Anniversary - Talk by former detainee Mohamedou Ould Slahi - Monday the 11th of January, 2021 at 7pm GMT
Lewes Amnesty Group says "Lewes Amnesty Group is delighted to invite all local Amnesty group members to attend a talk by former Guantanamo detainee Mohamedou Ould Slahi to mark the 19th anniversary of the opening of Guantanamo Bay Detention Center and to remember the forty men who remain in Guantanamo today (either detained without charge or trial or who have been subjected to unfair trials).
Chaired by AIUK Board member Hugh Sandeman, the event will also highlight Amnesty’s new report on Guantanamo being issued on 11th January and examples of campaigning work previously undertaken by Lewes Amnesty Group. We call on all local Amnesty groups to join us in taking action over the coming year to demand that Guantanamo be closed and for justice for the 40 men who still detained in Guantanamo today.
This meeting will help us plan for how to influence the new US administration. We will also hear more about the film The Mauritanian, based on Mr. Slahi's ordeal, which is due for release in the United States at the end of February. It will be held on Zoom next Monday the 11th of January, 2021 at 7pm GMT.
Admission to this event is free to the general public. If you wish to attend you are asked to complete the form on Lewes Amnesty Group's website.
LINK TO LEWES AMNESTY GROUP WEBSITE FOR NON-MEMBERS: http://amnestylewes.org/index.php/2021/01/05/mohamedou-11jan2021/
Note: Amnesty International will publish a new report about the detention facility on 11 January 2021.
HOSTED by CAGE - GUANTANAMO END GAME?
ONLINE EVENT WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
WEBINAR: GUANTANAMO END GAME? Monday 11th January 2021 at 6.30pm
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
10th DECEMBER is HUMAN RIGHTS DAY: 72 years ago, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UNDHR) - a ground-breaking document which set out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected. On December 10th, International Human Rights Day, people all over the world mark the day when the inalienable human rights of everyone were enshrined in the United Nations Declaration of Universal Human Rights. The prohibition of torture is a key principle of international law, a principle deeply embedded in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), European Convention on Human Rights (1950), and the UN Torture Convention (1984). The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, described by the UN as a “milestone document in the history of human rights”, sets out the fundamental human rights to be universally protected.
Article 5 of the UNDHR, states that,
“No-one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”
Article 9 says “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.”
CAGE says “To mark the 19th anniversary of Guantanamo's opening, we will hold a unique event online with some very special guests. We are honoured to have with usMohamedou Ould Slahi from Mauritania who authored his book "Guantanamo diaries" during his 14 years at the camp. His life is depicted in the upcoming Hollywood movie "The Mauritanian". We will also have Abdulbasit, a survivor of Bagram prison who will speak about the current efforts to secure the freedom of his brother Muhammad Rahim, one of the two last Afghans still in Guantanamo without charge. Of course, CAGE's Outreach Director Moazzam Begg will be there to discuss how we can turn this dark page of history once and for all inshaAllah"
Attendance is FREE, you only need to register to secure your seat!
REGISTER HERE
MARKING THE DAY - GUANTANAMO ANNIVERSARY - 11th JANUARY 2021
DEMAND US PRESIDENT ELECT JOE BIDEN TAKE ACTION
TO CLOSE GUANTANAMO
The following letter (see below) was sent to the press (9.1.21) signed by representatives of both London Guantanamo Campaign (LGC) and Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC).
------------------------
Today (11 January) marks the anniversary of the opening of the US war on terror detention camp at Guantánamo Bay where 40 men remain after 19 years. Most have never been charged and do not face trial. Those who face trial do so almost wholly on the basis of evidence obtained through the use of torture. Almost two decades on, Guantánamo Bay remains a stain on the human rights record of twenty first century western civilisation.
While Joe Biden’s upcoming inauguration offers hope of a new opportunity to close Guantánamo Bay, we must not forget the role other states have played in perpetuating this lawless black hole, including the United Kingdom, through facilitating the rendition to torture and arbitrary detention of prisoners and failing to take immediate responsibility for their citizens.
As well as urge Joe Biden to take action to close Guantánamo and release the remaining prisoners to safety, such states must hold themselves to account for their own potential war crimes in the war on terror, as Australia has recently done, and in the case of the UK, reconsider provisions in the current Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Bill 2019 that grant impunity for potential war crimes to our military personnel.
---------------------------
The Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) poster statement for Human Rights Day was published by the Morning Star on the 10.12.2020
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 10th DEC. 2020
USA MUST CLOSE GUANTANAMO
UN INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF TORTURE
26th JUNE 2020
Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) calls for an end to torture
and brutality, and a respect for human rights and international law.
On 12 December 1997, via resolution 52/149, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 26 June the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. By such initiatives, it was thought that there would be movement towards the total eradication of torture and the effective functioning of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (the Torture Convention). The UN has said the"26 June is an opportunity to call on all stakeholders including UN Member States, civil society and individuals everywhere to unite in support of the hundreds of thousands of people around the world who have been victims of torture and those who are still tortured today."
The Torture Convention was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 10 December 1984 (resolution 39/46). The Convention eventually came into force on 26 June 1987 after it had been ratified by 20 States. Torture is a crime under international law, but despite 169 countries ratifying the United Nations Convention Against Torture, many countries still continue to practise torture...........
See full statement on our EVENTS page.
LEWES AMNESTY - ONLINE PUBLIC MEETING - 11th June, 8pm
BETWEEN COVID AND TRUMP: THE HORRORS OF GUANTANAMO
Speaker: ANDY WORTHINGTON, author, campaigning journalist.
See below flyer for online event Between COVID and Trump: The Horrors of Guantanamo, a public meeting organised by Lewis Amnesty group.
To attend the meeting please contact Lewis Amnesty via their website: http://amnestylewes.org/ as requested on the flyer - see immediately below.
Guest speaker Andy Worthington (journalist, activist and co-founder of the Close Guantanamo campaign) will bring us up to date on what is happening in Guantanamo. His talk will be followed by an opportunity to ask questions and to decide what we can do to close this illegal detention centre, which in January 2022 will have been holding people without trial for twenty years.
LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN
'Shut Guantánamo!' DEMONSTRATIONS OUTSIDE THE US EMBASSY
Check the LGC website/facebook for details and latest updates. Contact: london.gtmo@gmail.com
Share your protest picture/video to LGC's Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/London-Guantánamo-Campaign-114010671973111/
WE MARKED THE DAY
PROTEST VIGIL:
SHUT GUANTANAMO
19 YEARS
NOT ONE MORE DAY
11th January 2020
See photos on our GALLERY page
No To Trump
No To Nato
National DEMO
Tuesday
3rd Dec. 2019
Assemble: 4pm
Trafalgar Square
March to
Buckingham
Palace
Org. by StWC
CIA TORTURE UNREDACTED
New Report
A panel discussion with Cori Crider
Sam Raphael
Crofton Black
Prof. Ruth Blakeley
Wed, 10 July 2019 6pm-8pm
Regent Street UG.05
University of Westminster
309 Regent St, London, W1B 2HW
Org. by The Rendition Project / TBIJ
Event: Free
Full details: here
UNITED NATIONS
ANTI-RACISM DAY
DEMONSTRATION
Sat 16th March
Assemble 12 noon
PARK LANE, LONDON
NEAR DORCHESTER HOTEL
W1K 1QA
NEAREST TUBE:
HYDE PARK CORNER
The TUC and ‘Stand Up to Racism are organising this year’s march and rally. The demonstration will mark the UN Anti Racism Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This will be one of many demonstrations taking place around the world.
On Saturday Guantanamo Justice Campaign will join the many marching against racism and fascism. GJC also calls on President Trump to shut down Guantanamo.
BOOK LAUNCH LONDON
12th March 2019
Jeremy Harding presents GUANTANAMO KID: Jerome Tubiana & Alexandre Franc
LONDON REVIEW BOOK SHOP
Tues 12th MARCH - 7pm
14 Bury Place, London, WC1A 2JL
+44 (0) 20 7269 9030
Book Tickets: here
LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN
DEMONSTRATION
7th March. 2019
US EMBASSY
33 Nine Elms Lane, London SW11 7US
12noon-2pm
PETITION to sign:
PRESIDENT
TRUMP
CLOSE GUANTANAMO BAY
As of January 30th 2018, President Trump ended the US Government’s commitment to closing Guantanamo. Sign REPRIEVE's petition to the President, calling on him to end the years of injustice and abuse at America's illegal prison. 25,326 signatures already achieved. Help Reprieve reach 50,000.
You can sign the petition here:
https://reprieve.org.uk/guantanamo-week/
DONATE TO THE GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN
You can make a donation to the work of Guantanamo Justice Campaign using the following information: Bank: The Co-operative Bank Account name: Guantanamo Justice Campaign Sort code: 08 92 99 Account number: 65467002
PROTEST VIGIL: CLOSE GUANTANAMO
18 YEARS - NOT ONE MORE DAY
STOP THE ABUSE AND BRUTALITY
SATURDAY 11th January 2020
TRAFALGAR SQUARE
Assemble: 1pm-3pm - in front of National Gallery
GJC will be marking the day when prisoners first arrived at the US run illegal prison at Guantanamo Bay on 11th Jan. 2002. Since 2002, Guantanamo prison has held a total of 780 prisoners.
The prison is notorious, a symbol of injustice: a place known for torture, abuse, and indefinite detention, where prisoners are denied their human rights. Just 40 prisoners remain incarcerated and US President Trump has previously stated he wishes to send more prisoners there. Last month, provisions in the new US National Defence Authorisation Act, signed into law by President Trump, effectively block any attempts to shut down Gitmo and any return of Guantanamo Bay to Cuba. The ‘Act’ also bars transfers of Guantanamo prisoners to the US for prosecution or medical attention and treatment. The requirements of the ‘Act’ are in line with the January 2018 executive order signed by Trump which was widely viewed as an action to keep Guantanamo open indefinitely.
Our vigil calls on US President Trump to close Guantanamo and end the illegal treatment of the remaining prisoners.
We will also demand that the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, makes urgent representations to the US President to close the brutal and illegal concentration camp.
Open mic session - readings, speeches, display of posters and placards. Bring along your letters addressed to the UK Prime Minister & US President D. Trump - these can be read out during the vigil. Your readings and poems welcome.
Our vigil will demand US President Trump close Guantanamo to end the illegal treatment of the remaining prisoners. We will also demand that the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, makes urgent representations to the US President to close the brutal and illegal concentration camp.
Also on 11th January 2020: 4.30pm at DOWNING STREET
Following our vigil a GJC DEPUTATION will hand in a signed letter to:
Prime Minister Boris Johnson at No. 10, Downing Street at 4.30pm
Bring along your letter/s addressed to the Prime Minister which GJC will ensure the Prime Minister receives. Hand in your letters to GJC at our vigil (1pm at North Terrace, Trafalgar Square) or to our deputation (4.30pm at Downing Street gates)
Organised by Guantanamo Justice Campaign (GJC) See more at: www.guantanamojusticecampaignuk.org
No War on Iran Demonstration:
Sat 11th January
Assemble 12pm - Outside the BBC, Portland Place, March to Trafalgar Square
Organised by: Stop the War Coalition & CND **NO WAR ON IRAN - NO WAR ON IRAQ - TROOPS OUT OF IRAQ**
StWC says "The assassination of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani is an act of war by Donald Trump. The act was carried out in Baghdad, violating all agreements with the Iraqi government. Both Iran and Iraq will retaliate. Trump has been heading for war since tearing up the nuclear deal with Iran and if he succeeds will create a bigger war than we have seen in the Middle East. It will draw in major players across the region including Israel, Saudi Arabia and possibly Russia. We must do all we can to campaign for peace and de-escalation in the Middle East. Join this Saturday's demonstration.”
SIGN PETITION: The US assassination of Iranian General Qasim Soleimani can only be seen as a cruel, violent and illegal act. It has raised tensions in the Middle East to an extremely high level. Lindsey German of StWC has referred to the US as “an act of war by Donald Trump” and has warned that “It will draw in major powers across the region including Israel, Saudi Arabia and possibly Russia”. Labour MP Richard Burgon has warned that President Trump’s actions could lead to war with Iran that would be even “worse than that on Iraq” in 2003. Jeremy Corbyn has said the UK government should urge “restraint on the part of both Iran and the US, and stand up to the belligerent actions and rhetoric coming from the United States”. He has called on all countries in the region and beyond to “ratchet down the tensions avoid deepening conflict, which can only bring further misery to the region”.
SIGN PETITION: "Boris Johnson: We demand that Boris Johnson rules out military action against Iran”
Sign here: http://chng.it/fHN2gQc5gY
SEE BELOW - 2018 & 2019 ACTIONS
AND SEE MORE ON OUR EVENTS PAGE
No to Trump - No to NATO - National Demonstration
Tuesday 3rd December 2019
Assemble: Trafalgar Sq, London - 4PM
[Note the 'Close Guantanamo' contingent: Guantanamo Justice Campaign, London Guantanamo Campaign and others meet up at Trafalgar Square on the steps of St Martins in the Fields Church at 3pm, bring banners and placards]
March to Buckingham Palace
Organised by: Stop the War Coalition & CND
Donald Trump is coming to London in December for the NATO Heads of State summit. On Tuesday 3rd December, the Queen will be hosting a reception for NATO leaders at Buckingham Palace and it's crucial we raise our voices against the world's largest nuclear-armed military alliance which is overseen by one of the most reckless US Presidents in history.
GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN monthly VIGIL
PROTEST VIGIL - Wed. 13th November 2019
CLOSE GUANTANAMO
STOP THE ABUSE AND BRUTALITY
DOWNING STREET: WED. 13th November 2019, 1pm-3pm
Assemble: opposite DOWNING STREET, Westminster, London
GUANTANAMO IS AN ILLEGAL USA RUN TORTURE PRISON
DEMAND UK PRIME MINISTER, UK GOVERNMENT MINISTERS, PARTY LEADERS & MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT
SPEAK OUT AGAINST INDEFINITE DETENTION AND TORTURE
THE UK PRIME MINISTER MUST TELL PRESIDENT TRUMP TO SHUT GUANTANAMO DOWN
JOIN US AT DOWNING STREET AND HELP DISTRIBUTE OUR FLYERS AND ASK PEOPLE TO SIGN OUR TWO PETITIONS ON GUANTANAMO and UK COMPLICITY IN TORTURE
Prisoners first arrived at the US run illegal prison at Guantanamo Bay on 11th Jan. 2002. Since 2002, Guantanamo prison has held a total of 780 prisoners. 40 prisoners remain there and President Trump has previously stated he wishes to send more prisoners there. The prison is notorious, a symbol of injustice: a place known for torture, abuse, and indefinite detention, where prisoners are denied their human rights.
Demand that the UK Prime Minister:
1) Speaks out publicly and calls for the closure of the US run illegal prison known as Guantanamo
2) Sets up a comprehensive and independent judge-led inquiry into Britain’s involvement with extra -judicial torture and rendition. Such an inquiry must look into the allegations of complicity by UK security service agencies in torture abroad, truth must be told.
UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights states:
“Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” (Article 3),
“No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” (Article 5),
“No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.” (Article 9).
Along with others, Guantanamo Justice Campaign continues to campaign to help bring about closure of the illegal prison known as Guantanamo, and justice for all the prisoners. We will continue to demand that the US closes Guantanamo, and insist Prime Minister Theresa May and her Government also step up and call for the closure of Guantanamo and an end to torture.
Guantanamo Justice Campaign says "Any return to the use of torture by the US must be robustly opposed".
As the leader of the Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, has said, torture is “ inhumane, illegal and delivers false intelligence”.
SEE MORE BELOW
See below - Together Against Trump protests:
Together Against Trump - Stop the State Visit Demonstration
President Trump’s full state visit to the UK takes place over 3rd- 5th June.
MOBILISE - DEMONSTRATE
‘Together Against Trump - Stop the State Visit Demonstration’
4th June to take place in London.
Organised by ‘Together Against Trump’
ASSEMBLE at 11am, in TRAFALGAR SQUARE
Further details: Stop the War Coalition
A quarter of a million protested against Tump’s visit to the UK last year. Trump’s policies and public statements have served to fuel racism and far right politics, sow the politics of hate and ferment division. He has shown a disregard for international law with respect to human rights, war and conflict – Guantanamo is one example which continues to be known as a place of brutality and torture where prisoners are denied their human rights and access to justice. The demonstration in London on the 4th June will highlight many issues, "the fight for migrant and refugee rights, for women’s rights, against the corporate elites and for the future of our planet”.
Join the protest: Together Against Trump - stop the state visit
GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN supporters will meet up on 4th June and ….
ASSEMBLE on the steps of St MARTINS IN THE FIELDS, Trafalgar Square at 11am.
GJC will be joined by LONDON GUANTANAMO CAMPAIGN and others to form a
‘Close Guantanamo’ bloc on the 'NO TO TRUMP' march.
We will show our opposition to the state visit, saying to the US President Trump, no to racism, no to torture,
and demand the closure of Guantanamo prison, and justice for all the prisoners held there.
ALSO
Protest at the Palace: Spoil Trumps Banquet
Monday 3rd June, 5.30pm:
The Spur outside Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA.
Bring pots and pans, vuvuzelas, musical instruments etc and make some noise!
Monday 3rd June & Tuesday 4th June 2019 in LONDON
GUANTANAMO JUSTICE CAMPAIGN at the
TOGETHER AGAINST TRUMP DEMONSTRATION
NO TO TRUMP - 4th JUNE 2019
UNITED NATIONS
ANTI-RACISM DAY
DEMONSTRATION
Sat 16th March 2019
Assemble 12 noon
PARK LANE, LONDON
NEAR DORCHESTER HOTEL, W1K 1QA NEAREST TUBE: HYDE PARK CORNER
Guantanamo Justice Campaign at NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION
TOGETHER AGAINST TRUMP 2018
Guantanamo Justice Campaign
at TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS' FESTIVAL 2019
19th, 20th, 21st JULY
GJC's campaign stall was located in the Main Marquee at the Tolpuddle Festival on Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st July.
Every year in July, thousands of people enjoy the Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival.
It is a weekend of family entertainment, stalls, political debate, comedy, music and a grand procession through the village.
Read the Martyrs story: Visit the TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS FESTIVAL website: https://www.tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk/welcome
“In 1834, farm workers in west Dorset formed a trade union. Unions were lawful and growing fast but six leaders of the union were arrested and sentenced to seven years’ transportation for taking an oath of secrecy. A massive protest swept across the country. Thousands of people marched through London and many more organised petitions and protest meetings to demand their freedom.” ......“the Tolpuddle Martyrs changed the face of social history and, through their beliefs and actions, made such an impact on society.”
GJC at TOLPUDDLE FESTIVAL 2018
Many thousands attend the festival
See history of the festival here: http://www.tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk/festiva