Action Guidelines
CAAT is a non-violent organisation. CAAT's words and actions must be nonviolent and be seen by those external to CAAT as being non-violent and this should be borne in mind at all times. Involvement in CAAT's activities, demonstrations and protests is conditional on accepting the need to remain nonviolent throughout. It is also imperative that CAAT's communications, publications and on-line presence is also seen as nonviolent. It is highly recommended that participants in civil disobedience or NVDA (Non-Violent Direct Action) should take part in nonviolence training before the action.
Occasionally, specific agreements or guidelines are made by CAAT for particular actions or protests. Taking part in these activities is therefore conditional on respecting all agreements and guidelines made for them. However, for all CAAT's activities these general guidelines apply:
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We will be respectful of everyone, whether they are involved in the arms industry, police, passers-by or other people involved in the protest, debate or activity.
- We will encourage sincere dialogue with all.
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We will not engage in or encourage others to engage in physical violence or verbal abuse towards any individual or undertake actions which could compromise the safety of others.
- In some situations, using heightened or confrontational language, for example in chants or slogans on placards, may appear to be threatening or aggressive, even if we do not find it so, and this may be discouraged.
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We will not carry anything that could be construed as a weapon.
- We will not bring, consume or participate under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs (except for medical purposes) on CAAT demonstrations or actions.
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During protests and other actions, people who perceive themselves to be the object of our protests, participants in the protests or even passers-by can become frustrated or simply lose their tempers. It is therefore imperative that we have a clear head, try to remain calm and do not mirror their behaviour.
If these guidelines are not adhered to, CAAT retains the right to ask people to leave the given event or remove the offending words.
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