Thanks for posting this
everyone should remember its important to mask up - see what's been happening to bush demo protestors months after the event

At the Carnival Against Vivisection last month the police had a section 60 aa (or something like that) in force which gave them the right (apparrently - I haven't looked it up so feel free to correct me) to remove items being used to conceal identity and arrest anyone who refuses or puts it back on again.

There is every chance that they will do the same with the Smash EDO demo.

If you wish to preserve your right to anonymity, my advice is to add other differences to your appearance - face paints are an idea ...

I don't know if they have the right to insist on the removal of face paints, but the idea of asking several hundred activists to wash their faces so that the cameras can get a good view (essentially why they want to see your face) should be interesting at the very least!

..I quite liked the Greek approach to this problem. Great ideas for dealing with CCTV cameras on demos here

 http://athens.indymedia.org/front.php3?lang=el&article_id=115792

 http://athens.indymedia.org/front.php3?lang=el&article_id=88172

Failing that, it is useful to remember that CCTV is not as good as it is painted. It works most effectively by making you THINK you are being watched.

Still, it pays to be cautious. Cover up from early on in the demo, as soon as you get near. Hoods and sunglasses are good. Even umbrellas if it is raining!

Just as an aside, a section 60 provides for the removal of face coverings. There is nothing in that Act, nor any other, which means you have to co-operate with having your picture taken. It is perfectly lawful to refuse to be photographed and to hide your face from a camera.

of cameras. At the June EDO carnival what I thought was an independent video journalist transpired to be working for the police.

if you are painted up take note that such skin coverings prolong the effect of pepper spray

this site explains what to do before and after cops tear gas/pepper spray you

 http://urgencemanif.meagerman.net/chem.html

When the police attacks, do not be individuals trying to stop them. they are together, so shall we - lock the arms, the weight of bodies linked together is a live barricade and is harder to disperse. Prepare mentally - know what can happen so you won't be shocked, take water, some food and only what necessary and useful, stay strong. Suggestion -wear all black and only red mask on face. Soak mask with lemon juice to filter and prevent pepperspray irritation of airways. Good luck see you there.