Two senior activists from Just Stop Oil caused a stir at the British Library by attempting to damage the glass casing of the Magna Carta to protest against fossil fuel usage and urge stronger action on climate change.
On May 10, 2024, two elderly activists from the Just Stop Oil group caused significant commotion at the British Library in London by targeting the Magna Carta, an iconic medieval document symbolic of legal and democratic principles. The activists, Reverend Dr Sue Parfitt, aged 82, and Judy Bruce, aged 85, attempted to smash the glass protection surrounding the Magna Carta using a hammer and chisel. Following their attempt to damage the glass, both glued themselves to a nearby bench while displaying a sign that read “The Government is breaking the law.”
The Metropolitan Police swiftly intervened, arresting both individuals on suspicions of criminal damage. Notably, the glass casing around the Magna Carta was damaged, though the document itself remained intact. This incident led to the temporary closure of the British Library’s Treasures Gallery where the Magna Carta is displayed.
The protest was part of a broader campaign by Just Stop Oil to emphasize the urgent need to address climate change and end the use of fossil fuels. Reverend Parfitt stressed the significance of prioritizing the fight against climate breakdown to protect law and freedom, while Bruce highlighted the urgent warnings from scientists about increased global temperatures and the need to cease oil and gas extraction by 2030. Both activists underscored the importance of direct action in confronting environmental challenges and pushing for substantial policy changes in energy and climate sectors.
