Corby and Kettering Festival of Social Justice to celebrate activism

Corby and Kettering Amnesty International group is to take part in an online Festival of Social Justice featuring talks, music, debates and celebration.

The group will showcase some of the important examples of activism in the area, their global links, and their social significance and hear from a range of local activists on their work and causes.

Speakers will cover a diverse range of topics, from championing of safer roads and better transport, the local campaign to ‘Save Weekley Hall Wood’, to the battles of environmental defenders in Central America.

Local group chairman Nic Speed said: “We are delighted to be part of this amazing festival, and hope to showcase a wide range of campaigning actions in our online event.

"This area has a proud history of activism on both local and global issues.

"The deep roots reach back to the Newton Rebels of 1607 fighting for their land rights, Kettering’s William Knibb working on behalf of Jamaican slaves as an abolitionist, and into more recent history with the Corby mothers who won the landmark Toxic Waste case in 2009.

"Featuring both social and environmental themes, our speakers on 22 May will cover Black Lives Matter, Save Weekley Hall Woods, campaigning for safe and sustainable travel, modern day slavery and environmental activism in Central America.”

On the panel will be John Padwick and Dez Dell, on behalf of the ‘Save Weekley Hall Woods’ campaign, Sheila Royce, regional team coordinator for Central America and Mexico, Simon John, chairman of Thetford Amnesty Group, speaking on modern day slavery, Mia and Ofure, students at Kettering Buccleugh Academy, on the Black Lives Matter Campaign and Alison Holland, Brightkidz, on safe and sustainable travel.

The free event will run from 4pm to 5.15pm, with attendees also having the chance to submit questions for the panelists.

Festival organiser Gethin Davies said: “The Festival of Social Justice offers everyone a chance to take part in fascinating and fun events, learning more about human rights and also hearing some great speakers, music and poetry.

"We hope thousands of people across the country, and even across the globe, will enjoy the diverse range of events we have put together.”

More details on the Corby and Kettering event, and a link to book a place can be found by clicking here or for more information email [email protected].