If you were walking through downtown Victoria this past weekend, you might have seen something striking— a slow-moving group of people who wore flowing red gowns and had their faces covered with white paint.
Known as the Red Rebel Brigade, the group sees itself as a performance collective that uses movement and visual impact to attract attention at public demonstrations.
The red gowns represent the blood shared by all living beings. Their silent, synchronized movements aim to “foster a sense of unity and reflection”.
On Saturday, they joined the “Draw the Line” march and rally. It started at the BC Legislature and went through parts of downtown, ending with a gathering at Songhees Park.
This event was one of several held across the country and was organized by a group of organizations calling for climate action and social justice.
Organizers described the event as a call for governments to “pick a side.” They see this as a choice between policies that promote injustice and climate destruction or a future built on safety and prosperity.
The Victoria rally featured speeches, music, and creative actions, including the Red Brigade’s performance. Their aim was to “divert, distract, delight, and inspire” while also reminding everyone of the shared humanity that connects us all.
For those who watched them drift silently down Government Street, the group’s presence might have felt a bit strange. However, that’s intentional.
“We illuminate the magic realm beneath the surface of all things and invite people to enter in… we are peace in the midst of war,” explains the group on their website.
Here are some photos from this past weekend’s protest:
