WITH marches and rallies for independence across Scotland cancelled because of the pandemic, organisers have been looking for innovative ways to protest in safety, and if there are areas of the country that are safer than most then they are our glorious Scottish beaches.
Today in Fife, Yes2Indee have organised a socially distanced event on the beach at Kirkcaldy. What’s believed to be the Yes movement’s first organised “Beach Flag” display will take place from 12pm to 2pm.
National organiser Gary Kelly said: “Yes2Indee is looking to send a clear and visual message to Boris Johnson and his Tory government, the message being that Scotland will choose its own future.”
Kelly is continuing to work for independence despite being informed this week that he will have to stand trial in November for alleged offences in connection with the All Under One Banner march in Aberdeen in August 2019.
He has been able to call on the services of friends and fellow activists for today’s event.
Last week we told the story of the giant Saltire flag erected on Oban’s McCaig’s Tower (above), the historic monument that overlooks the Argyllshire town.
Organisers of that display, Judith Reid and Fiona Campbell will be taking their giant flag to Kirkcaldy beach today where it is sure to be a big attraction.
Yes2Indee’s plans for today emphasise that this is a socially distanced event, on the beach below Kirkcaldy Esplanade.
Kelly said: “Bring your flags, bring your banners and be part of something different during these hard times.”
Another major attraction will be the presence of the Yes Bikers who will be rolling along to Kirkcaldy in the early afternoon. It’s the first event that bikers have been able to attend for some time, and they are always a welcome sight and sound at marches and rallies.
Kelly said: “We are also pleased to announce the support of the Yes Bikers, who will be bringing the thunder at approximately 1pm. It will be great to see and hear them.”
Yes2Indee has already recruited a first-aid team and anyone who might wish to assist as a volunteer steward is asked to go to the beach at 11am to collect a high-vis vest from Kelly.
Despite his impending trial, Kelly and his fellow members are planning more events over the summer as lockdown lifts.
He said: “We at Yes2 are a not-for-profit organisation, once this pandemic is over we will be marching for Scotland.
“We will only be marching and will be looking to work with local groups to arrange a rally at our events. The local groups will be in total control as separate entities; however, we will work together to achieve marches.”
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