Several hundred disabled people and their supporters took turns to demonstrate outside Parliament in 32 degree heat. Some were there all day. Judging by the media coverage it seems that many peers were asked to rethink their position.
Baroness Jane Campbell and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson spoke eloquently and outlined the reasons why so many disabled and vulnerable people are frightened of the proposed change in the law.
Now the dust has settled somewhat Baroness Campbell says,
“Good afternoon everyone. I am mentally and physically exhausted today by yesterday’s spellbinding day, which was a privilege to be part of. Firstly, a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart, for all the help and selfless commitment that contributed to our successes yesterday.
Three weeks ago the majority of the public, media and at seemingly at least 75 % of our parliamentarians in the Lords were supporting in various degrees, an assisted dying Bill. Yesterday, because of our honest and thoughtful arguments against a change in the law, we began to throw doubt upon such a profound change, and the debate in Parliament reflected this. It was 50-50. There has also been a shift in the media, which has been dominated by those calling for a right to be helped to die at a time of their choosing.
Disabled and terminally ill people were absent from the debate – but today we covered the papers with our voice! Far fewer speaking on our behalf about our lives, just our voice.
I cannot tell you how proud I am of disabled people’s Herculean efforts to protest in 32°, many for over nine hours, outside Parliament. Supported by great allies who were happy to step aside and give us the stage, made us feel strong and valued as equal citizens.
If you can, take a look at the papers today, you will see a mark of our collective achievements.
Please can you forward this message on to all those people you know who contributed to our successes this week. I wish I knew them all personally!
Thank you again – disabled people and our non-disabled supporters, all so much”.