As explained in a post yesterday, Birmingham City Council had introduced a PSPO banning the use of musical instruments and amplification equipment at all times in certain parts of the city centre.
I’ve written to the Council asking them to revoke and reconsider the order. I’ve also written to Christian Concern to review if there is any further possible action.
Why? Well, first of all, I am not doing this because I think it’s about persecution. It isn’t. There are a number of issues where Christians have experienced constraints on their rights in recent times. However, it is rare for this to be intentional targeting in our context.
Nor am I suggesting that there isn’t an issue There are a number of individuals and groups that have at times overstepped the mark by blasting out sound for prolonged periods of time at high volume. This is unacceptable. I appreciate the challenges that our local authority face.
However, I do not believe that the action is proportionate. It targets people regardless of whether their intent is to be a nuisance or not. So that is my first reason.
Secondly, I want to stand with others. This includes brothers and sisters who have been constrained in their effort to evangelism. It also affects other street performers including buskers and entertainers. We want to stand in solidarity with them.
Thirdly, this directly or indirectly affects members of our own church. We have a few people involved in street witness, some within the protected area, others outside it. I personally have been involved in this kind of outreach for some time.
Fourthly, it sets a precedent. It is a worrying state of affairs when someone can complain about “nuisance” and that immediately results in a banning order. It is important to challenge the council before this goes further.
Personally, I am involved in public evangelism. Even though the methods I use and areas where I am engaged are not affected, I still think it is important to act. Who knows what might be included in future restrictions? However, regardless of whether we are directly affected, we should want to stand in solidarity with brothers and sisters.
Faithroots 