UK Falsely Accused Protest Gains Momentum for International Falsely Accused Day 2023
September 4, 2023 – In a resolute stand for justice for the falsely accused and wrongfully convicted, the Falsely Accused Day movement is spearheading peaceful protests on Saturday 9th September 2023. Demonstrations will take place from 2pm – 4pm outside New Scotland Yard, Victoria Embankment in London and HMP Liverpool, 68 Hornby Road, Bootle. This year marks the third anniversary of Falsely Accused Day, an initiative that has attracted global attention, inspiring activists around the world to rally against the grave injustice of false accusations.
While expressing unwavering solidarity with genuine victims of rape or sexual assault, the FAD campaign emphasises that not all allegations are substantiated. The focal point of Falsely Accused Day is to raise awareness that innocent individuals can find themselves wrongly accused of sexual offences leading to profound, often life-changing, negative consequences. Through peaceful demonstrations, the event seeks to underscore the significance of Due Process and the protection of the rights of those accused.
The influence of this movement has transcended national borders, sparking international demonstrations. On 8th September 2023, demonstrations are scheduled in the USA, followed by rallies on 9th September 2023 in Argentina, Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland and Spain. The launch of International Falsely Accused Day 2023 amplifies the collective voice against wrongful convictions and the erosion of fundamental rights.
At the heart of this protest lies the stories of individuals like Andy Malkinson who endured 17 years of wrongful imprisonment for a crime he did not commit. Such cases serve as poignant examples, underscoring the pressing need for a justice system that is just, impartial and equitable.
Acknowledging the imperative of supporting survivors, FAD points out the potential pitfalls of the “believe the victim” approach. This stance can sometimes undermine the presumption of innocence, leaving those falsely accused at a disadvantage in proving their innocence. The pressure exerted by the government on law enforcement agencies and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to secure convictions can inadvertently lead to biased investigations and trials that do not afford defendants a fair chance.
A pivotal factor contributing to these miscarriages of justice is the selective withholding of exculpatory evidence by law enforcement and the CPS. This practice can obstruct the emergence of truth in courtrooms, further perpetuating wrongful convictions that exact a heavy toll on innocent lives.
Tragically numerous individuals are presently incarcerated for crimes they did not commit, highlighting the urgency of addressing this systemic issue. Equally concerning is the practice of awarding financial compensation and guaranteed lifetime anonymity to false accusers, which may inadvertently encourage malicious intent.
This protest serves as an impassioned call to action for legislators, law enforcement agencies and the public at large to join forces in advocating for a justice system that upholds the rights of all individuals, maintains Due Process and prevents the devastating consequences of false accusations. MPs, celebrities and concerned members of the public are cordially invited to stand in solidarity on 9th September and demand justice for those wrongly accused.
For media inquiries and additional information, please contact:-
Lyn Crabtree (lyncrab99@hotmail.com)
or
Sheila Harmon (sharmon456@gmail.com)
Falsely Accused Day is an annual event committed to raising awareness about the predicament of the wrongly accused and advocating for reform within the justice system. Originating in the UK, this initiative has garnered international traction, uniting activists worldwide in their pursuit of equitable justice for all.