UK politics is not something I see a lot of on Tumblr. I want to make something very, VERY clear though.
Reform UK is a hate movement.
Local elections are at the start of May this year. It's important for us to protect each other from their hate, and make every vote count.
Be loud. Make your message clear.
If you live in an area with a lot of support for Reform, and if it's safe for you to do so, then a simple sign, sticker or pin, could be all you need to make people feel safer. It's easy to feel surrounded by hate, create a message of love instead.
Remain civil. Follow the law.
We have freedom of political expression, not liking Reform is not a crime. Me and my partner (a disabled trans couple) have been threatened with harassment by a neighbour for having anti-Reform signs in our window. We have been polite while she's yelled at us about how she doesn't care about our rights, and wants the posters removed for being 'offensive'. A political sign is not a crime, there is no hate speech, just opinion (which, wow, we've come full circle, huh? The 'you can't say anything these days' and 'people are so sensitive now' crowd being offended and throwing a fit over a piece of paper in the window).
We have responded to this situation by first attempting to de-escalate, and then informing her that we will call the police if she returns to our house to harass us. After she refused to be civil and agree to leave us alone, we filed a report with the police so they have the background info if she does show up again. Legal avenues only.
I cannot stress enough. Do not deal with a situation like this alone. If you are being threatened with harassment (or worse), contact the police.
101 is the non-emergency number for police where you can report an incident and ask for advice.
If you don't feel comfortable going to your local police alone, look to your community. Charities, support groups, community cafes (queer spaces especially), find places that can help support you.
If you are in immediate danger, however, call 999. Do not hesitate.
Right now is a scary time for the UK. It may not be as flashy and violent as places like the USA, but it's just as insidious. Protect yourself, protect your neighbours. Especially queer, disabled, or PoC in your community. Be kind to immigrants, have empathy, and most importantly, stay safe.
