Issue One – 26th October 2011

It’s over a week since more than 3000 people first occupied St. Paul’s, and many of us are still here. The transformation of the site has been incredible. We have a kitchen serving food around the clock in accordance with health and safety regulations, an info tent, recycling centre, library, university, prayer tent, tea room, tech centre, legal office, and now: a newspaper.

It hasn’t been easy, and there have been hiccups, but the speed and efficiency with which the camp has come together is a small triumph for democratic non-profit co-operation outside the rigid framework of traditional, hierarchical power structures. As well as a space in which to develop ideas, the site itself serves as an example of how things could be different.

There have been some key moments along the way; St. Paul’s initial backing was crucial, and were it not for some ‘direct action’ when the general assembly agreed to the police’s request to erect a barrier along the shop side of the camp, it might not feel as homely. This was not, though, a failing of the GA. Although the initial decision was eventually overturned, the second consensus meeting – held while a group blocked the police barrier – resulted in us constructing our own non-imposing divide on our own terms. Psychologically, it was important to demonstrate that this is our space, and that we will not be dictated to in it.

Since then, we have established a second camp at Finsbury Square in response to pressure from the church for us to move on. Finsbury Square is not a replacement for St. Paul’s; it’s an extension, and this movement will continue to expand until effective change arrives.

This publication – produced in an often unpowered, unlit tent towards the back of the camp – does not speak for the movement. Instead, we aim to host a variety of opinions and philosophies, advance the debate, report on significant events and challenge the often inaccurate narratives of the mainstream media.

Everyone within this movement agrees on at least one thing: the system as it is cannot go on. We must seek alternatives, and we must do so together as a people with new emphasis placed on equality. Privilege of all kinds must be challenged, and we hope you will help this newspaper to be part of that effort by reading, contributing, and adding your own voice to its pages.