Over the course of the past couple of weeks we’ve been glued to the news more than ever. How could we not when our cities were under sabotage, played out by gangs of thugs and groups of opportunist yobs, alike. Homes, livelihoods and businesses, left in tatters all in the name of greed, hysteria and a sheer lack of respect.
The London riots have been felt around the world, but nowhere more strongly than on our streets. To turn on the TV and see the horrendous scenes being acted out was almost like watching a film; a violent one at that. It was the police against the streets, government against the people.
From a peaceful protest starting in Tottenham last Saturday, following an allegedly unjustified police shooting, it wasn’t long before we were hearing reports that the looting, violence, and animalistic behaviour has spread further afield to Enfield, Clapham, Brixton, Croydon and then much further afield in Nottingham, Birmingham and Greater Manchester. In what can only be described as ‘copycat criminal activity’, these were blatant acts of violence with the only motive being ‘resentment’ towards the police.
However, despite wide-spread violence and anarchy across London and other parts of England, the jolly good ol’ chaps who still respect our great city came back fighting. With the help of Twitter accounts such as @Riotcleanup and various other organisations, a mass clean-up was underway. Locals, victims, and people from further afield touched by the stories they were hearing on the news, grabbed their brooms and headed for the big city, to sweep shattered glass off the streets, pick up debris, and generally help get the city back on its feet.
One story in particular caught my eye and it was that of Aaron Biber, an 89-year-old man who had his barbershop smashed up and his business devastated – they even stole his kettle. However, three interns from the London advertising agency, BBH, were touched by Aaron’s story and set-up a campaign for cash donations in his honour: “We wanted to use this opportunity to show that youth and technology can be a force for good.” Within days they had raised thousands with the final amount reaching a whopping £35,000. Wow, what a generous bunch we all are. After restoring Aaron’s business the interns will be working with the local council to see that any remaining money goes towards helping others that were affected. If you want to check the page out click here
What happened in London is beyond shocking and so far removed from anything I ever thought humans’ would be capable of doing to their own communities, but out of every tragedy comes hope.
So to every fire fighter, police office and paramedic who displayed courage and bravery; every man, woman and child who helped restore our streets, to the locals that brought cups of tea out to the police…
Thank you.
Together we’re strong, united we are stronger
Amy
