Stand together: Manchester Event - (Previously Manchester Stays)

In the aftermath of Brexit, we Stand Together. Note: This event is one of multiple Stand Together events across the country. This is not a movement that intends to be Manchester-centric. For a full list of other events, see the bottom of this message. What is this? We created this event because we felt dissapointed at the whole referendum process. That something so profound could be decided by something that there were so many flaws with. After the result - as Remain voters - we felt our voices would no longer be heard. We feared that was it; that there would be no further discussion allowed for those who had voted Remain and Leave and see how we can move forward togeghter. We feel that continued public engagement following the result is also a part of the democratic approach. We wanted to create a public space to begin that dialogue. It would have been easy for this event to advocate one particular petition or action, but we believe it’s too early for anyone to say what that action should be. Equally, we feel that the genuine Leave vote needs to be respectfully listened to, understood, and engaged with. Division got us into this, and it probably won’t help get us out of it. To sum up, this event in AlbertSquare will be an opportunity to come together, show unity with one another, make your feelings heard, begin to build consensus, and hopefully, turn the emotion of the referendum result into positive action. Why? There’s been much sorrow and anger after the referendum result. Whilst understandable, we believe it’s now time to come together. It's sad also to think that some people across Europe now think of Britain as non-inclusive, closed and inward-looking. We believe that Britain is better than that. Stand Together is our mark of showing that - in consideration of the EU Referendum result - we stand alongside the people of Europe to show we are inclusive, open and patient to all, regardless of age, gender, race, demography, location, and whether they voted Leave or Remain. We believe that the best way forward is to understand people’s emotions and reasonings, and allowing for a space to reflect on the past and the actions leading to the referendum outcome. In doing so, we hope to help change the dialogue from something negative and divisive to one of hope. We want to stand in solidarity with the entirety of the UK and Europe to say we’re here, we’re open, and wanting to understand how best to go forward in a positive manner. The event itself More details to follow, but expect speakers, music and debate. Principles This an event for the people, and to follow our ethos of not dictating what people should do or think, we’ve written the following principles: 1. Participation: This is an event for all, and so all - whether Remain, Leave, or other - are welcome. 2. Positivity: We promote positivity around the referendum, not wishing to blame, and always with the mindset of wanting to find creative ways of looking to the future. We do not base prejudice based a person’s decision to vote. 3. Leave no trace: We want to commit to leaving no physical trace of our presence after we gather – and so clean up after ourselves. 4. Non-partisan politics: We believe healthy debate with the political system is vital, however this is not a space for partisan politics. We don’t believe one party or politician has all of the answers, and we don’t expect them to. Instead, uniting with a single message of positivity. We have invited UK and Europe to stand with us, and as such there are a number of other events happening to reflect this idea. What you can do More details to follow, but for the time being, please spread the message of this event, and in particular the recent name change. Other Stand Together events Manchester Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1044046729022694/ London Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1671704409745795 Oxford Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/559875920881119/ Cardiff Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1809240625973562/ Liverpool Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1096144713792323/ Cambridge Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/892607070884452/ Bristol Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1716224655310437/ ______ Please note: We've been in touch with Greater Manchester Police today obviously as you can't really get anything done over the weekend, we'll hoipefully be in contact with their events team as well as Manchester Council tomorrow in order to get permission.