

554. We're ALREADY In An AUTHORITARIAN State - Montgomery Toms
9 snips Jul 14, 2025
Montgomery Toms, a 20-year-old activist arrested for his free speech stance, shares his personal journey against authoritarianism. He discusses the emotional toll of confronting censorship and societal pressures, including his experience of solitary confinement. Toms highlights the erosion of free speech in the UK, contrasting it with less democratic nations, and critiques pandemic-related governance. His passionate advocacy for liberty reveals the personal costs of activism and the importance of protecting expression in an increasingly controlled environment.
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Arrest and Solitary Detainment Experience
- Montgomery Toms was arrested by nine police officers at a Pride rally for holding a sign stating "The trans flag = mental illness."
- He was detained alone in a cell for nine hours, an experience that mentally affected him deeply.
Lockdown as Authoritarian Awakening
- Lockdown revealed how governments offload health, wellbeing, and freedom decisions to authorities who may not truly represent the people.
- This fueled Montgomery's growing awareness of authoritarianism and his drive to push back against imposed mandates.
Grassroots Engagement for Freedom
- Engage in grassroots activism by having real conversations with the public to push back against authoritarianism.
- Set an example of freedom by debating topics mainstream media avoids.