Thousands protest in London over deaths in police custody
- Text by Ben Smoke
- Photography by Aiyush Pachnanda
This weekend thousands gathered in Central London to march in solidarity with grieving families whose loved ones have died in police custody or following contact with the police.
The annual march, which started in Trafalgar Square, was organised by the United Families & Friends Campaign (UFFC). The group was established in 1997 as a network of Black families, but more recently expanded to include families, of those who have died at the hands of the police.
Relatives of those who have died delivered a signed letter to Downing Street demanding an urgent meeting with prime minister Rishi Sunak. Among them were the relatives of Chris Kaba, who was shot dead by Metropolitan Police officers in September, were in attendance, with Kaba’s mother and cousin both delivering speeches to the crowds. An IOPC investigation into the killing is ongoing.
Also joining crowds were family members or Oladeji Omishore, who died this year following an incident where he was tased by police on Chelsea bridge. Marcia Rigg, an organiser at UFFC – whose brother Sean Rigg died in police custody at Brixton police station in 2008 – was also present. The families are calling for changes to the judicial process following deaths in police custody or following contact with the police.
After the letter was delivered crowds walked to Parliament street where they were addressed by family members. Thousands in attended chanted “police are the murderers” as well as holding signs and placards demanding justice. Photographer Aiyush Pachnanda was there to capture the march.
Follow Aiyush Pachnanda on Instagram.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
You might like
In London, rollerskating’s revival rumbles with the city’s soundsystem culture
Rink magic — New quad skate events around the capital are being soundtracked by a cocktail of jungle, dancehall, amapiano, UK rap and more, in a uniquely London fusion. Ian McQuaid reports on the hybrid skate-dances, and the growing pains that the scene has faced.
Written by: Ian McQuaid
Throwback portraits of the UK’s first punks
Punks 1978-1980 — While working as a photographer in the army, Wayne “Spike” Large would moonlight as a punk on the weekends. His new photobook revisits the characters that he captured from the genre’s heyday.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Meet Lady Pink, the ‘First Lady’ of graffiti
Miss Subway NYC — As a leading writer and artist in a man’s world, Sandra Fabara has long been a trailblazer for girls in underground art. Now, her new show touches on her legacy, while looking to the future.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Brian Eno announces Palestine fundraiser concert at Wembley Arena
Together for Palestine — It will take place on September 17, with “every penny donated” going to humanitarian relief in Gaza via Choose Love.
Written by: Ella Glossop
As Grindr scams in India rise, its LGBTQ+ community fights back
Red flags — Through mobilising the threat of outing queer folk, scammers are using dating apps to find targets for extortion, violence and blackmail. Mansi Rathee and Amir Bin Rafi spoke to people who have been affected, and reported on the community’s work to support victims and raise awareness.
Written by: Mansi Rathee
Jack Johnson
Letting It All Out — Jack Johnson’s latest record, Sleep Through The Static, is more powerful and thought provoking than his entire back catalogue put together. At its core, two themes stand out: war and the environment. HUCK pays a visit to Jack’s solar-powered Casa Verde, in Los Angeles, to speak about his new album, climate change, politics, family and the beauty of doing things your own way.
Written by: Tim Donnelly
