Where did RTS go after J18?

In the aftermath of the police crackdown and media hysteria RTS disappeared as an organised entity. Were they scared (poor little mites)? Imitated by nasty police men? Or just cowards who abandoned the movement?

Anyway they are back now, thank god…..

Methinks everyone ought to make their way from this to the anti-Countryside Alliance demo on the Sunday...

Where did RTS go since J18?

Well, lets see. Regular london meetings didn't stop after J18 and are still going strong.

Then of course there was 'N30' at Eustons over rail privatisation.

Then of course there was mayday, prague, genoa etc which all had input from RTS types.

Plus various squats, screenings, etc etc

It's hardly the fault of RTS if your view of the world is blinkered by poor media, or your non presence at meetings to hear what's been going on or to add your own contribution.

You could always come to the regular open meetings instead of making snide comments.

I don't mean to be snide but I feel that RTS missed a great opportunity to offer direction and focus to the anti-capitalist movement in its early days. After J18 large numbers of newly radicalised people started looking towards RTS, they became the de-facto leadership (sorry for any offence that word causes anarchist types). Then, in what I imagine was fit of panic RTS relinquished the responsibility. Yeah, sure they helped put together N19 but not with the same enthusiasm. And since then they have as, I repeat, an organised entity, disappeared. I don't doubt that individuals remain involved. The bottom line is that RTS's failed to grasp a historical moment.

RTS was subjected to immense police and media oppression; despite this individuals from RTS managed to set up the current direct action infrastructure in this country and across the world, giving rise to groups such as People's Global Action, Indymedia, Rhythms of Resistance, The Wombles; The Social Centres Network etc.
This means the spirit of RTS has lived on, although individual actions were not necessarily branded RTS (for instance the DSEi action last year was basically organised by RTS but it was called a Fiesta for life against death and not a Reclaim the Streets event).
However, the idea of the party is to reclaim the RTS concept so to speak.
Anyone wanting to get involved, please e-mail  rtsparty2002@yahoo.co.uk or ring 07931 560 569
We still need volunteers, performers, musicians, artists, prop makers etc.
One love, one struggle.

Where:
Entrance is behind Aldi store, High Road, Tottenham

Rail:
Liverpool Street - Bruce Grove - Enfield Town service

Buses:
259 King's Cross - Manor House - Bruce Grove - Edmonton
243 Wood Green - Bruce Grove - Dalston - Waterloo
149 London Br - Dalston - Bruce Grove - Ponders End etc

Programme:  http://rts.gn.apc.org/diary.htm