Biggest protest since Anonymous era planned for Scientology leader’s return to England

[The IAS tent begins to take shape at Saint Hill]

In May, former London Scientology staffer Alexander “Apostate Alex” Barnes-Ross introduced himself to the Underground Bunker community.

Since then, he’s been keeping a close eye on Scientology’s moves in Great Britain, and we told you that recently he confirmed that the annual IAS gala would be returning to England for the first time since 2019, and with it Scientology’s reclusive leader, David Miscavige. The event is scheduled for the weekend of November 3 to 5, and will take place in a large tent on the grounds of Saint Hill Manor, Scientology’s UK headquarters in East Grinstead.

Now, Alex wanted us to know some of the plans he has for a protest to greet Miscavige which should, he says, be the biggest demonstration against Scientology since the days of Anonymous more than a decade ago.

“This will be the first anti-Scientology protest held in the UK for 5 years and based on the registrations received so far, it looks like it will be the largest since Anonymous took to the streets 15 years ago,” he says.

And his motivation?

“When I was a teenager, I was locked in a room at their London Org at 146 Queen Victoria Street and told I couldn’t leave until I’d written down everything unethical I’d ever done – when all I was asking for was help. After leaving, I have heard countless stories of similar things happening to Scientologists around the world – people being harassed, forced to have abortions, held against their will and, for example, thrown in the lake during winter at Saint Hill as punishment. I have had enough, and I want people to realize what really happens inside Scientology.”

And he says the response from others who feel similarly has been remarkable. He has so many sign-ups, he tells us, he has not only already obtained police clearance for a static demonstration, he’s also seeking approval from the East Grinstead council for a march, which would require road closures. (If you’re interested in attending, Alex asks that you visit the protest’s website.)

Also, he got his hands on a list of the artists who will perform on Sunday at the event, the usual charity concert. Headlining will be the usual Scientology mainstays, swing band the Jive Aces. But we were also happy to see that included on the bill is none other than our old friend Chill EB!

Wow, that brings back some memories.

And speaking of memories, let’s keep up the nostalgia for IAS galas of the past as we continue to amp up the excitement for its return. We want to thank the reader who sent in some video clips that they recorded during the charity concerts in 2017 and 2019. So much theta in one place!

Hey, wait. Is that James Barbour singing in that first clip? Why yes, yes it is.

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