EVICTION RESISTANCE @evictionresistance-blog - Tumblr Blog

EVICTION RESISTANCE: NEW BLOG ADDRESS!

The Eviction Resistance blog has now moved from blogspot and tumblr to a less corporate, more activist friendly host. The new site is: www.evictionresistance.squat.net We won't be updating this blog anymore so do make a note of the new address. There's quite a few new posts up too on the new site so check them out - it's been a busy few weeks! Smell you later tumblr. E.R

UKUNCUT HOUSING ACTION: 08/12

Last Saturday a few of us attended an action on Upper Street, Angel that was organized by ukuncut and housing for the 99%. Tax dodging Starbucks was the target of choice for anti cuts activists and a temporary shelter was set up in front of the cafe to highlight how government cuts are impacting those in vulnerable housing. Curtains were put up over the facade, much to the confusion of coffee sipping customers, and a dining table was positioned in front of the main entrance with a selection of house warming treats. Although the original plan had been to set up inside Starbucks itself, this was prevented by a large police presence. The shop was forced to close though for approximately an hour as talks were held by the large group gathered outside. The action received an overwhelming amount of support from passersby and overall was a huge success. Here's the pic's!

The gathering outside Starbucks, Upper Street.

Talks by various housing related groups including Housing for the 99%, DIGS and Fuel Poverty Action.

Placard of the day - 'too little, too latte'

Squat activist Pete the Temp talks about squatting and homelessness

Sadly, this will be the case for many next year

Getting the message out to Islington

After being moved on from outside Starbucks, we crossed to road to target another tax dodger - Foxtons!!

Pete blows the horn of justice at Foxtons staff

Last talk of the action before heading off to a local pub for some well deserved refreshment. Photos By Anthony Mortarelli

#angel #benefit cuts #foxtons #home #homelessness #housing #islington #london #squat #squatting #starbucks #ukuncut #Anthony Mortarelli Photography

LONDON RADICAL HOUSING COALITION

We are pleased to announce that the London Eviction Resistance network has joined the London Radical Housing Coalition. This coalition brings together a broad range of housing groups, joining the forces of private tenants, social housing tenants, travelers and squatters. It aims to provide a directly democratic forum and horizontal platform by which housing groups can share resources, coordinate their campaigns and collaborate between themselves. It does not seek to establish a separate group or organization, but to find ways for existing groups or organizations to mutually empower each other as a movement. We have always recognized the need for us to links arms with other groups so we can support each other in fighting for our right to a home. The Housing Solidarity meeting on the 24th of November saw many different groups come together to discuss ways of supporting each other better. The next housing solidarity inter group meeting is scheduled for the 15th of December, venue to be announced. So, until then we'll be getting involved in these campaigns: The Counihan Battlebus: An amazing campaign by Kilburn residents, fighting to stop a local family from being made homeless. https://www.facebook.com/vincent.counihan.1?fref=ts Students occupy a university room in protest at gentrification and the forced eviction of numerous families in Carpenters estate, Stratford. http://savecarpenters.wordpress.com/ Cardiff squatters open up and hold a third squat, despite being threatened by meathead security guards. https://bristol.indymedia.org/article/712000 UKUNCUT Next Saturday, the 8th, will see a nationwide day of action by those who oppose government cuts. http://www.ukuncut.org.uk/actions Solidarity to all!

LONDON HOUSING SOLIDARITY MEETING 2012

Tenants, travellers and squatters: Sick and tired of being ripped off? Been bullied by bailiffs? Moved on with no place to go? You're not alone. Join us for an afternoon of housing related discussion, strategizing and networking. Talks from various groups on upcoming campaigns & actions alongside performances from London's finest housing activists. Saturday 24th Nov 2012. Discussion from 14.00 - 18.00. Colorama 2, 44-48 Lancaster Street, London SE1 0RY *Enquires:[email protected]/ 07591 415860* An eviction for one is an eviction for all.

FAREWELL, COMRADE!

Keith Robin, the founder and inspiration for the eviction resistance network, sadly passed away last month after suffering a sudden brain haemorrhage. An inspiration to many, he will leave a massive hole in the heart of the squatting movement. All those who knew him loved him, and all those he knew he loved. He is sorely missed by us and that is why we have taken a short break to allow ourselves to grieve. He contributed greatly to this blog and, as a close comrade, these are what I guess would have been his last words for the eviction resistance blog:

‘One in 7 people on this planet squat. You are not alone. Housing is a human right. Fight back! Resist! Community power! Whatever they say, SQUATTING WILL STAY!!'

Solidarity and much love to all.

A TRIP TO THE NEWLY OPENED 'HOBO HILTON'

Entrance to the Hobo Hilton

Early yesterday evening on Saturday 6thOctober we visited the newly opened office building 'Hobo Hilton' , at 203 High Holborn, which has apparently been empty since 2003.

This squatted space was a hive of activity. The welcome desk in the foyer was surrounded by many excited visitors, including quite a large media group .Despite the name this newly opened project, which has been formed by a number of groups including Occupy, doesn’t have an open door policy to simply house homeless people, though shelter does seem to be a part of what The Hobo Hilton has on offer.

Raising public awareness of the massive housing crisis this country is in, the consequences of the savage financial cuts those in power are still in the process of inflicting on the infrastructure of our society and the dangers we all face if the issues of climate change are dealt with by yet more cuts and green wash.are on the agenda for this activist hub .A mix of informative workshops and direct action are the tools of choice for the people involved in this project. On offer on Saturday, which was an open day was a very fine banner making session, a beautiful and thought provoking art exhibition provided by a number of artists and an entertaining cabaret in the evening. All free.

We recommend a visit sooner rather than later (court coming up this week) Donations of useful items, food, your time or suggestions on how to use the space would all be welcome.

Facebook Group here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/437626852950239/?fref=ts

Daily Mail Article (!):

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2211854/Lloyds-Banking-Group-Protesters-control-bank-worth-750k-affluent-suburb.html

Demotix Pics:

http://www.demotix.com/news/1484395/hobo-hilton-opens-its-doors-central-london

HACKNEY PUB 'THE SCREW' NAILS RESISTANCE!!!

A successful eviction resistance in Hackney squatters' local 'The Screw' this morning. Despite an overwhelming early start to the resistance (a plethora of bailiffs and private security guards with very angry dogs) the numbers of the resistance gradually swelled to an impressive 30/35 strong crowd. After a two hour standoff, numerous cups of tea and slices of melon, the forces of darkness eventually left the derelict pub and it's occupants in peace - much to the delight of the resistance! A much needed success considering the newly opened 'Cuts Cafe' was evicted yesterday evening after harassment from the Met and riot police. At first they threatened to storm the building and arrest folk for abstraction of electricity. Although when presented with evidence that the group had spoke to an energy company earlier that day they changed their minds... They were now adamant that the group were committing aggravated trespass and thus felt the need to call 3 vans of riot cops. Proportionate. So. Although no arrests were made, the building was emptied and re-secured by security. The police often use the offence of aggravated trespass as a way of getting people out of buildings. In the case of the cuts cafe, the building was empty. There were no signs that it was in use. The cops claimed that there were meetings scheduled there though for 'sometime in the future'. So. Aggravated trespass. Were these people really committing this offence? Or were these empty threats? Judge for yourself. a. Aggravated trespass (section 68, Criminal justice and public order act 1994) ‘(1) A person commits the offence of aggravated trespass if he trespasses on land and, in relation to any lawful activity which persons are engaged in on the land, does there anything which is intended by him to have the effect of: (a) intimidating those persons or any of them so as to deter them or any of them from engaging in that activity (b) obstructing that activity (c) disrupting that activity’ The section goes on to define ‘lawful activity’ as an activity which can be engaged in without committing an offence or trespassing on land.’ So if the activity wasn’t lawful or there was no actual activity taking place then you will have a defence. This offence can only be tried in the magistrates court. The maximum penalty is 3 months imprisonment, a fine of up to £2,500, or both. First timers would probably get a fine in the region of £200-300. (Courtesy of www.activistslegalproject.org.uk)

#squatters #squatting #resistance #eviction #solidarity #bailiffs #Hackney

CARDIFF SQUATTERS FIGHT BACK!

First eviction resistance in Cardiff in over a decade ongoing at the Gremlin Alley Squatted Social centre in Cardiff. Here's the latest update: UPDATE - 3pmLatest update is that cops scaled down to between two and five in the last hour and have just been stood across the road with two bailiffs and the janitor. No attempt at entry so far.Still several squatters on the roof, wearing masks, and a few people still outside, but not as many as before.Passing cars have been supportive, with one woman apparently saying "don't move, stay strong!"And the house over the road, near where the cops are standing, is playing Public Enemy, Rage against the Machine and CRASS loudly through the upstairs window! Last we heard the Autonomads had just been requested, but folks on the roof are after black paint to make signs to save shouting requests across the road and food is also welcomed (vegan if possible).Photos from the day due up shortly...but more to come as they haven't gone...And thanks for the messages of support received from places ranging from Swansea to Brighton!Solidarity to all squatters and Alex Haigh! Here's the Indymedia article from this morning: http://indymedia.org.uk/en/2012/10/500908.html Respect!! **UPDATE** 4PM New Pic! ***UPDATE 6PM*** After an all day rooftop standoff, Police and bailiffs have finally left the property and the residents remain in their home. We heard there are rooftop celebrations ongoing which will very likely continue for a good while! Another successful resistance for the UK squatting community in these difficult times. Big up to the Cardiff squat collective - today you really showed them that whatever they say.....

SQUATTING WILL STAY!!!!

FIRE SAFETY

We came across an article today about how many people are living in precarious living conditions in the capital. The upsurge of rents in the private sector combined with a lack of available social housing has forced many into the rental of sheds, garages and spaces not fit for habitation. This has sadly led to 4 deaths and 45 injuries over the past three years due to fire. Is this your big society Cameron? Where unscrupulous landlords capitalise off people’s need for shelter? Where people can afford no better roof over their heads than that of a garden shed? There is a dire need for affordable housing in the capital and until the government start putting people before profit we can only imagine things will worsen.Here's the BBC article:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-19800791

If you're worried about fire hazards in your home, contact the London Fire Brigade fire safety team on 08000 284428. They offer a home visit team who will come and advise you how to protect yourself from fire hazards and also install free smoke alarms.

NEWS ROUND UP!

After an exhausting few weeks of evictions, arrests, scuffles with the police and dodgy internet connections we're finally able to update the blog again. So, lots has been going on here's a quick round up: FRIERN BARNET LIBRARY As most of you will be aware, Friern Barnet Public Library, which was closed down due to cuts, has been reopened and given back to the community. They had court last week and managed to get an adjournment for three weeks. They had poetry and spoken word workshops last Sat followed by a jam session which the local residents got involved in. Big up Friern Barnet Crew!!! **Book donations and volunteers greatly appreciated!** LASPO? FUCK NO! LET OUR GUY GO!!

Alex Haigh, 21, of London is currently serving a 12 weeks sentence at Wormwood Scrubs for the 'offence' of squatting in a residential building. This has saddened the squatting community greatly. So, lets get pens and paper out and send him some messages of solidarity. The newly formed Squatters Legal Network are collecting in messages of support. Give them a shout if you want to send him something. https://network23.org/squatterslegalnetwork/ SQUATTASTIC! A rather wet squattastic happened a few Sundays ago in Waterloo. Torrential rain meant many were not able to attend but cheers to those who did. A member of Greentech did a workshop on off grid energy which was really informative and useful - solar panels are the way forward! There was then a intergroup meeting between various squat related groups about how the new legislation is kicking in. The next Squattastic date was decided but we've lost one of our diaries somewhere in squatworld so can't actually put it up here. Will post date/location asap. SOLIDARITY TO ALL! To finish, we want to say a massive thank you to all those who have been rushed off their feet the last few weeks protecting our community from homelessness and arrest. From commercial squats who are providing shelter to residential squats thrown out on the streets to individuals who are using their free time support other crews in finding a place to live. Massive respect to all. Together we are so much stronger. It's been a rough few weeks and many of us are exhausted by recent events. The governments attack on our peaceful community has caused so much unnecessary havoc and stress. When times are tough remember that the community is here and it's stronger than ever. Have a read of this article it made us remember exactly why we're doing what we do and why its so worth fighting for. Much love to all. http://cutscafelondon.wordpress.com/2012/09/27/guest-blog-on-squatting-by-a-london-anarchist-and-squatter/

FIRST PRISON SENTENCE FOR SQUATTER!

Silence is Golden

Using new legislation that criminalises squatting in any residential property a London court has recently sentenced a young man of 21 to 3 months in prison, despite being of .previous good character and having no legal representation, prison was considered an appropriate sentence for a homeless person occupying an empty building.

This new and poorly formulated law needs to be challenged and tested in the courts. To help both yourself and fellow squatters ER recommends a no comment interview with police. Silence is Golden. If you don’t have a solicitor consider ringing Squatters Legal Network on 07988776690. Under no circumstances should you make a guilty plea without good legal advice. ER is sure there are competent duty solicitors, but we feel that it is better not to trust them.

http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/london-squatter-first-to-be-jailed-8181647.html

HACKNEY RESIDENTS RESIST EVICTION!

The forces of darkness descended on the peaceful, commercial Hackney property this morning in order to carry out their wrong doing. They were met, however, by a rather large crowd who stood their ground and defended the fact that everyone has a right to a home. The 20 occupants of Dove Row remain in their home despite the wishes of capitalist property developers. Viva la resistance - homes for all!!

After the resistance there was a march that ended at Hackney Town Hall.

Photos: Anthony Mortarelli

NEXT SQUATTASTIC!!!

BANNER OF THE WEEK!

NEW LEGISLATION STARTS TO BITE

We've been keeping track of squat related activity since September 1st when squatting in residential building was made illegal. Here's a quick round up:

GLASTONBURY A few days ago we reported that 5 individuals were, to our knowledge, the first to be arrested under the new law. Coincidently, it has also been revealed that proposals to make more emergency accommodation for homeless young people in Somerset have twice been turned down by planners. We understand the Squatters Legal Network are keen to support those arrested. Here's more information from the local press in Somerset: http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Squatters-kicked-Street-house-law-changes/story-16839585-detail/story.html

CHICHESTER Last Saturday, Police visited a squat in Chichester after the owner asked them to get the squatters out. It is reported that the squatters left of their own accord and no arrests were made. Local homeless charity Stonepillow was critical of the new legislation. “It is also worth noting that many of the properties occupied as squats are ‘disused, empty buildings’ and some squatters choose this option as opposed to sleeping rough. http://www.chichester.co.uk/news/local/chichester-squatters-evicted-after-new-legislation-comes-into-force-1-4225220

BRIGHTON The squatters arrested following a police raid on a part residential property were charged with abstracting electricity, obstructing a police officer and the offence of squatting in a residential building. They were bailed unconditionally until they appear in court in October.

BIRMINGHAM Housing activists and homeless people have been threatened with court proceedings if they do not vacate the council owned residential building they are occupying. A spokesperson for the group stated that there were genuinely homeless people sheltering in the building who will be forced out onto the streets again. More info here: http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2012/09/499567.html BRISTOL One squat, and possibly a second, has been closed down using the new legislation. Another has been served court papers. One person was arrested and then released without charge. http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2012/09/499620.html LONDON We don't have any more information on the six people arrested in Southwark yet but we'll update as soon as we do. Other than those arrests, London has been reasonably quiet. We're getting a lot of reports of landlords/police giving squatters notice to leave rather than them attempting to enter the building and arrest them. Other residential squats which are awaiting eviction/court proceedings don't seem to have been affected. The metropolitan police seem quite reluctant to enforce this legislation. Probably because when they signed up to becoming a police officer they were more interested in dealing with real crime not turfing homeless people out of empty houses. So. That's the update from us. Solidarity to all. Let us know if we've missed anything out!

LONDON SQUATTERS SERVE GOVERNMENT NOTICE OF EVICTION!!

A group of London squatters descended on the houses of parliament last Saturday to serve the coalition government notice of eviction. We expect many more actions of a similar nature to come over the next few weeks as the anti-squatting legislation kicks in. Watch this space for updates! Full story & pics here: http://www.demotix.com/news/1420872/squatters-evict-government#slide-17

BRIGHTON SQUATTERS RESIST NEW LAW!!

Epic standoff between Brighton squatters and Sussex police yesterday as new anti squatting legislation is used for the first time in Brighton. It took the police three hours to smash through barricades only to find squatters super glued together in the attic! Three were arrested, despite not actually living in the property, and to our knowledge are still in police custody. Full story here: http://en.squat.net/2012/09/04/brighton-first-arrests-under-squatban/ https://network23.org/snob/ http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2012/sep/04/police-arrest-brighton-squatters?newsfeed=true Also, 5 others were arrested in Somerset yesterday in a police raid on a squatted residential property. Those arrested were aged between 16 - 18. We don't yet know if they are going to be charged. Watch this space for updates. Solidarity to all. Whatever they say, Squatting will stay!!

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