On November 5, 2014 photojournalists from the London College of Communication attended one of the largest events in London, the Million Mask March.
The march, organised by the hacktivist group Anonymous, attracted thousands of protesters of all ages wearing a Guy Fawkes mask, which has become a symbol for protesting against authority.
Anonymous describes itself as “a truth movement advocating hacktivism as self-defence for unconstitutional government.” Through organized events such as a Million Mask March it aims to “shed light on corrupt government in order to set people free from oppression.”
Anonymous estimated 3,000 people participated in the event, which began at Trafalgar Square at 6pm before moving through the streets of London. Protesters marched through barricades and past police officers, with LCC photographers there to capture the events that unfolded.
“Even whilst standing in Trafalgar Square it was evident that this year’s protest was going to be much bigger than the year before,” said Lauren Towner, who also photographed the 2013 march.
Anonymous claims that this the march is the largest of more than 450 protests around the world.
Metropolitan Police said ten arrests were made the night of the march, although they stressed that the majority of protesters were peaceful and cooperative. As of November 19, police were still seek 12 protesters in connection with “concerted violent attacks” on officers in Parliament Square.
Last year 15 arrests were made during last year’s protest after protesters started a fire near Buckingham Palace, and damaged Nelson’s Column and the Victoria Memorial.
© David Rothwell
