When is a Nazi salute not a Nazi salute? When performed – twice – by Elon Musk, Trump’s loyal Mitläufer (hanger-on). Orwellian dystopia unfolds: protesters jailed, activists punished, and the BBC bowing to right-wing pressure – all just in the UK. In the US, Green Card holders are detained for lawful protest, scientists deported over critical phone comments, and Venezuelans falsely branded as criminals. Meanwhile, Trump flirts with Putin, excusing an invasion his own supporters recently condemned.
And then there’s Gaza. ‘Never again,’ we said, but only one side meant it. As the Israeli State commits genocide in broad daylight, democratic leaders barely raise a whisper in opposition. Peaceful protest is being criminalised, with anti-war activists arrested and charged, with others, including an 87 year old holocaust survivor, taken in for Police questioning in an attempt to intimidate and weaken a growing movement.
Yet, as Dr. Martin Luther King said, ‘Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.’ WoWFEST’s panel, featuring Chris Nineham, Niheer Dasandi, and Roger Hill, discusses democracy under attack—and how we can fight back.
More guests to be announced!
Chris Nineham is a founder and vice-chair of the Stop the War Coalition. Arrested in 2025 during a pro-Palestinian march, he pleaded not guilty to Public Order Act charges. He helped organise the historic 2003 anti-war protests, the 2001 Genoa G8 protests, and the European and World Social Forums. A regular media commentator, he writes for Stop the War, Counterfire, and others.
Niheer Dasandi, author of Is Democracy Failing (2018), is Professor of Global Politics and Sustainable Development. His research focuses on human rights, development, climate change, and foreign policy. He co-chairs the Lancet Countdown’s Public and Political Engagement Working Group. Niheer’s has published a range of books, and his work appears in leading journals.
Roger Hill hosted the UK’s longest-running alternative music show on BBC Radio Merseyside for nearly 40 years. A key figure in Youth Theatre, he has worked at Liverpool Everyman and beyond, now focusing on Live Art and storytelling.
We encourage people to use public transport to travel to events where possible.
*These are difficult times. We know some people may struggle to afford full price tickets. If you would like to attend this event but can’t afford to, please contact info@writingonthewall.org.uk. All queries will be treated in confidence.
The Black-E, 1 Great George St, Liverpool L1 5EW
£5.00
Date: May 19, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm
Ends: 9:00 pm
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