Democracy: Rights on the Line

Writing on the Wallis a dynamic, Liverpool-based community organisation that coordinates projects and events that celebrate writing in all its forms. We work with a broad and inclusive definition of writing that embraces literature, creative writing, journalism and non-fiction, poetry, songwriting, and storytelling. Writing on the Wall works with local, national and international writers whose work provokes controversy and debate. We work with all of Liverpool’s communities to promote and celebrate individual and collective creativity.

Writing on the Wall

WoWFEST panel on democracy under attack—from Gaza to the West—calls for resistance and justice with Chris Nineham, Niheer Dasandi &amp; more.

The Black-E

When is a Nazi salute not a Nazi salute? When performed – twice - by Elon Musk, Trump’s loyal Mitläufer (hanger-on). Orwellian dystopia unfolds: protesters jailed, activists punished, and the BBC bowing to right-wing pressure - all just in the UK. In the US, Green Card holders are detained for lawful protest, scientists deported over critical phone comments, and Venezuelans falsely branded as criminals. Meanwhile, Trump flirts with Putin, excusing an invasion his own supporters recently condemned.And then there’s Gaza. 'Never again,' we said, but only one side meant it. As the Israeli State commits genocide in broad daylight, democratic leaders barely raise a whisper in opposition. Peaceful protest is being criminalised, with anti-war activists arrested and charged, with others, including an 87 year old holocaust survivor, taken in for Police questioning in an attempt to intimidate and weaken a growing movement.Yet, as Dr. Martin Luther King said, 'Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.' WoWFEST’s panel, featuring Chris Nineham, Niheer Dasandi, and Roger Hill, discusses democracy under attack—and how we can fight back.

Chris Nineham is a founder and vice-chair of the Stop the War Coalition. Arrested in 2025 during a pro-Palestinian march, he pleaded not guilty to Public Order Act charges. He helped organise the historic 2003 anti-war protests, the 2001 Genoa G8 protests, and the European and World Social Forums. A regular media commentator, he writes for Stop the War, Counterfire, and others.Juliet Stevenson (CBE) is a distinguished English actress celebrated for her extensive work across film, television, and theatre. She gained widespread acclaim for her role in the romantic drama Truly, Madly, Deeply (1991), earning a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Her filmography also includes notable performances in Emma (1996), Bend It Like Beckham (2002), Mona Lisa Smile (2003), Being Julia (2004), Infamous (2006), Wolf (2023), and Reawakening (2024) . In recognition of her contributions to drama, Juliet was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 1999 Queen’s Birthday Honours. Beyond her acting career, Juliet is known for her political activism and support for the arts, emphasising the importance of representation and funding in the industry.Niheer Dasandi, author of Is Democracy Failing (2018), is Professor of Global Politics and Sustainable Development. His research focuses on human rights, development, climate change, and foreign policy. He co-chairs the Lancet Countdown’s Public and Political Engagement Working Group. Niheer’s has published a range of books, and his work appears in leading journals.Roger Hill hosted the UK’s longest-running alternative music show on BBC Radio Merseyside for nearly 40 years. A key figure in Youth Theatre, he has worked at Liverpool Everyman and beyond, now focusing on Live Art and storytelling.

The Black-E is an accessible venue; however, please note that the walkways are narrow and may not be suitable for larger motorized wheelchairs. If you have any questions or concerns regarding accessibility, please don’t hesitate to contact us: info@writingonthewall.org.uk

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Democracy: Rights on the Line

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Democracy: Rights on the Line

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