What did they know?

It's been a busy activist summer, with lots to catch up on from the last few months! Look out for lots of Activism Roundups coming soon.

Across April and May, actions continued to put pressure on all the royals, this time calling into question what the Queen knew about Andrew and Epstein. There have been so many actions since including the Commonwealth Day Protest, the Royal Maundy protest, Republic Day, and Trooping the Colour but it's finally time to look back on some of the actions before then! 

Queen embroiled in Andrew Scandal

See the video of the action here! 📽️ Activists replace ELIZABETH II POSTERS with QUESTIONS ABOUT ANDREW

On Monday 20th April, Republic activists drew attention to what the Queen knew about Andrew and Epstein.

This is the first time that Republic have actively put Queen Elizabeth in the spotlight over the handling of the Andrew Scandal, with Charles, William and the other royals often facing the questions. However, accountability for this scandal runs deep, and it is inconceivable to think that Elizabeth was not aware of what was happening - she put in a special word for Andrew to be the UK Trade Envoy! 

The posters were eventually removed, but saw lots of tourists and members of the public taking pictures of the posters all along the fencing of Buckingham Palace.

Want to raise this important question in your area? Why not download and print the poster to put up somewhere visible! 🖼️

State Opening Targeted Again in 2026

On Wednesday 13th May, activists once again put the important question to Charles as he arrived in the golden carriage to open parliament - what did he know about Andrew and Epstein?

"The action got good coverage, which made waiting through the wind and rain worthwhile!" ~ Ray, Republic Supporter and Volunteer.

However, at short notice a small group of activists organised an action and made a real impact with our placards, getting reported on in the media coverage of the day including The Telegraph, The Evening Standard, The Independent and more 🗞️

Want to be involved in actions like these? Drop me an email and let me know! 

Leeds leafleting at May Day Rally

Republic Yorkshire are once again leading the way for leafleting this year! In May, activists took to the streets during the May Day rally in Leeds to let them know about Republic's campaign, as well as Republic Day which was coming up not long after. 

"There's been anger [about the royal family] on previous days but nothing like this visceral rage. Several dozen people gave us quick thumbs-ups or brief phrases of support." ~ Adrian, Republic Supporter. 

Street stall's aren't really about having long and difficult arguments and debates - we know that there are so many people out there who want rid of the monarchy and are looking for a way to get involved - these are a great way for that to happen! 

Want to support Republic Yorkshire with their outreach activism? Get involved with Republic Yorkshire by joining their organising group chat 💬

Republic's Activism Network 

If you haven't yet got involved in Republic's activism network, and have enjoyed reading about what is possible and the impact it has, then make sure to get involved today! 

There are so many ways to get involved in Republic's activism network - why not: 

  • Check Republic's Event page for activist events coming up - nothing beats joining the network in person.
  • Joining one of the Republic-supported Local Activist Groups across the country organising actions, events and more.
  • Become an Ambassador for an existing Local Group or if you want to organise and take action in your local area, help to set up a new group.

A massive thank you to our members who make all of the above possible, and of course the fantastic activists featured in this Activism Roundup. If you're new here, make sure to check out the other Activism Roundups!

See you on the streets!

George McNaughton Ellis
Protest and Activism Coordinator, Republic

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George McNaughton Ellis

About

George McNaughton Ellis (Protest and Activism Coordinator)