We’re in the middle of pulling together into a coherent post a number of e-mail exchanges around the issue of the relationship of youth workers with young people and their relationship to the growing protests. In the meantime hats off to the Woodcraft Folk for the uncompromising support offered to their members,Woodcraft Folk Will Stand By You.

Young People of Woodcraft,

Many of you have been contacting us about walking out and taking part in protests against cuts to your education and increasing fees for university. Today the elected group of leaders and young members who help lead Woodcraft announced that Woodcraft Folk will enthusiastically support action taken by young people to protest against government cuts to education. This includes walkouts and non-violent direct action on the 24th November (this Wednesday)

You, and young people in Woodcraft before you have a long history of taking a stand on issues that affect you, your communities and your future. Your Elfin, Pioneer and Venturer groups have met with local councillors and MPs to discuss important issues. Your DF movement runs campaigns and stage non-violent actions, making front page news and contributing to national struggles for a better world. Young people from your districts have even been to parliament  and appeared on national television and radio to explain their message.

Many young people protested against the Iraq war and Woodcraft Folk was proud to support them as they marched in London, walked out of school and held their own demonstrations. Young people who take bold action sometimes get into trouble, but Woodcraft Folk will always defend your right to express your opinion act on your convictions.

Tonight we will write on behalf of the movement to the national newspapers, to make clear that Woodcraft Folk will stand behind you in taking action to influence the society we live in. Many critics will say that Woodcraft Folk should not support you and young people like you in having your say and that we should condemn “radical” action like school walkouts. We think differently. We believe it is your choice and in empowering young people to make your own decisions in life. We will never condemn important means of protest like walkouts if they have come from young people.

We encourage all members to talk about these issues in your groups and districts and what ever actions you choose to get involved in we will stand beside you.