A Revolutionary Rampage? London's Million Mask March
- Text by Michael Segalov
- Photography by Theo McInnes
While it’s impossible to create a “London protest calendar”, given it’s almost impossible to predict quite when the government will decide to come up with some dangerous new policy, there are certain events that can be scheduled into the diary pretty early on.
An annual trade union march, another organised by students demanding free education, and of course the Anonymous inspired rioting that breaks out annually on Bonfire Night, 5th November. As the rest of the country set shit on fire while definitely drinking too much, diehard Annons and their supporters rally together in Trafalgar Square, V for Vendetta masks placed firmly on their faces, ready to demand revolution while parading outside an empty Houses of Parliament.
As per usual, crowds were pretty impressive in number, although the messaging and direction of the protest was – while definitely anti-establishment – somewhat unclear. There was certainly an anti-capitalist sentiment among those who’d gathered though, and to be fair it’s not like this Tories really have a plan for running the country either. Banners that deplored tax evasion, global elites and the police were all on show.
A whole host of police restrictions were imposed well in advance of the march kicking off, the cops having cottoned on by now that thousands of angry, masked up people wielding fireworks can often lead to some public disorder. One of the laws invoked this year is known as a S60AA: Protestors aren’t allowed to obscure their faces when this is imposed in an attempt to stop identities being hidden, and it pretty much ruins the fun.
After a 6pm meet, the activities went on for a good few hours, by about 10pm the cops moved in to get the remaining protestors out of Westminster for good. In total 53 arrests were made, with protestors complaining once again that the Met were being heavy handed.
Whatever you make of these protests, they’re young and they’re angry. Don’t let the fancy dress theme make you think otherwise.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
A stark, confronting window into the global cocaine trade
Sangre Blanca — Mads Nissen’s new book is a close-up look at various stages of the drug’s journey, from production to consumption, and the violence that follows wherever it goes.
Written by: Isaac Muk
“Like skating an amphitheatre”: 50 years of the South Bank skatepark, in photos
Skate 50 — A new exhibition celebrates half a century of British skateboarding’s spiritual centre. Noah Petersons traces the Undercroft’s history and enduring presence as one of the world’s most iconic spots.
Written by: Noah Petersons
Venice Biennale will not award artists from Israel & Russia due to war crime accusations
Art Not Genocide — Both countries will still be allowed to exhibit work at their respective pavilions, but be excluded from judging considerations, as they have leaders facing arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court.
Written by: Noah Petersons
In photos: Columbia Hike Society turned a laundrette into a gear hub
Dirtbags — It kicked off the initiative’s latest season, which will feature 30 guided treks across the UK in 2026, with cleaning and repair stations, and upgrades to well-worn tech.
Written by: Noah Petersons
Eating concrete with London Skate Mums
Parental steeze — Founded during the pandemic, the group has ballooned into a community, giving mothers of various ages and abilities space to pull tricks, fall and express themselves. Sydney Lobe meets them at the legendary Southbank Undercroft.
Written by: Sydney Lobe
Confronting America’s history of violence against student protest
Through A Mirror, Darkly — In May 1970, two separate massacres at American college campuses saw deaths at the hands of the state. Naeem Mohaiemen’s new three-channel film memorialises the brutality.
Written by: Miss Rosen
