[First published in 2006]
These heroes are placed in no particular order, and nominations are always open, but it seems relevant to follow number three’s comedy stamina man with this chap – Brian Haw. At face value, Brain Haw is a peace protestor, but as protestors go, he is an enigma. His unfathomable commitment to his cause (which is a broad but simple one) has made him a kind of tourist attraction. A result of both his efforts and his location. His permanent residence (and postal address) is Parliament Square.
As you read this entry in Heroes of the Modern World he is on his 1841th day of protest which is gasp-worthy to say the least. He began on the second of June 2001, with a small number of signs bearing the names of Iraqi children who had died due to sanctions. Alongside these came larger more prominent banners to support his stand, and as time passed those initial banners were joined by many more. As fellow-minded people added to his display, his presence grew as did his support. No explanation is needed on the escalation of world matters since 2001 – his protest has grown accordingly.
Mr Haw is married with seven children and hails from Worcestershire, his vigil is an unfaltering 24 hour – all season – all weather stand for his beliefs. He is in no way alone in those beliefs, they are echoed widely across the nation, across the world. It is not his beliefs that make him extraordinary, it’s his actions. Strong attempts have been made to remove him through legalities citing safety issues or obstruction. The High Court refused to grant an injunction to Westminster Council to remove him from the square. The judge ruled that Mr Haw was exercising his right to freedom of speech and the pavement obstruction was not an unreasonable one.
So there he stays, indefinitely, through seasons he remains, sleeping under a plastic sheet, with his enormous collection of signs and banners that continues to steadily grow. Each and every day politicians must pass him on their way to parliament, his protest is one you simply cannot avoid. It’s an effort you simply cannot comprehend, it’s well worth paying him a visit if you can. His sentiments are applauded by many but a bit more support never goes unwanted.
It is worth reminding ourselves however that he is not there to become a star or a tourist attraction. He is there for a serious reason, for a million serious reasons. If his actions were no longer necessary I’m sure he would be straight off home to spend some quality time – but his actions are still needed and as we’re all aware – they are very likely to be needed for much time to come. An ideal hero would be peace itself, but we don’t have that. Until we do we have Brian Haw.
