A guest post by the Scottish Independence Movement
During this epidemic it’s impossible to campaign in our traditional ways. We can’t safely organise mass gatherings to show support for independence. Yet it’s more important than ever to demonstrate to this country that there is substantial and rising support for independence. We need to capitalise on the recent run of positive opinion polls showing clear majorities in favour of independence in order to maintain the momentum and further build support in a country where the media remains overwhelmingly opposed to independence and continually seeks to downplay its support.
It’s even more important that we continue to demostrate our determination that it’s the people of Scotland who have the sole right to decide the form of government that is best suited to our needs as the Conservatives in London mount an undemocratic assault on the devolution settlement.
The Scottish Independence Movement (SIM) has come up with a solution, a form of demonstration where it will be possible to maintain social distancing, because no one will need to get out of their car. They are organising pro-independence convoys all over Scotland. The SIM Convoy for Independence will take place on 1 August 2020, and participants will be able to take part in different areas around Scotland at the same time. So far events have been planned for Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, and Dumfries.
Please see below the guidelines for all participants to safely take part within the confines of your own vehicles so that social distancing is adhered to and we all keep safe in this Covid age.
Participants are being asked to please follow these strict guidelines. Drive in a safe manner, adhering to the Highway Code, whilst complying with Scottish Government Covid-19 Guidelines, announced at the date of the convoy.
You are asked to meet at the designated start points at 12.30 pm, where you will be aligned, by the local organiser, into formation for the convoy. The convoy will leave at 1.00 pm sharp.
All participants are to remain in their vehicles pre 1pm. The named organiser will approach, wearing PPE, and give relevant and current instruction regarding the route. Remember, please use your own facilities before leaving your house. There will be no comfort breaks during the convoy.
Bring face coverings, any relevant PPE or exemptions, in the event of an emergency, which you may be required to wear if you have to leave your vehicle.
Dress your vehicle carefully in saltires and yes banners. Please make sure that everything is safely and securely attached. Leave a safe distance between each vehicle in your convoy.
Be mindful of other road users. Ensure you keep sufficient distance between you and the vehicles in front. Allow for driver error, which may be elevated in stressful situations, also allow for safe braking distances in case any hazards occur unexpectedly.
Clean your headlights, indicators, and taillights. Check the tyres on your vehicle before starting your journey. The Convoy will set off with the “lead car”. Please follow the lead car and not overtake it. Do not exceed the speed limit set by law, ensuring, at all times, you are observing the highway code. Please at all times stay in your “bubble” as set by the Scottish government regarding COVID-19.
You all know your own health limitations. SIM will not take any responsibility for your personal health. We are recommending people at high risk stay home. If you are uncertain, please follow the link below to the NHS website for detailed information
We will be driving back to our designated endpoint where everyone will safely disperse and travel safely home. We call on every YES group, independence supporter and activist in your area, to collectively organise a convoy to your Route for Independence.
Contact our Facebook page (details below) to let us know if you can organise and participate in this Nationwide initiative for and on behalf of your area. SIM will then add your area to the nationwide participating list.
This is the SAFEST way to get Independence back at the forefront with the Scottish Elections not far away.
You will find more details about the event in your area by following the links below.
DUMFRIES: https://www.facebook.com/events/990167351444911/
GLASGOW: https://www.facebook.com/events/1061120684345766/
DUNDEE: https://www.facebook.com/events/975938936184555/
INVERNESS: https://www.facebook.com/events/2673529216299430/
Scotland has an alternative. We have an alternative. Let’s show the Westminster establishment that Scotland is no longer their plaything. Our voices will be heard.
Follow us on Twitter @SIM_SCOT
Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sim.scottish/
We are currently seeking an organiser for a convoy in Edinburgh. If you are interested please contact us via Twitter or Facebook.
