Anonymous
From Non-Violent Uprising
Anonymous FAQ
What is Anonymous?
Anonymous is a collective of like-minded people that has formed around various common internet groups. They have now come together for the purpose of protesting the Church of Scientology, attempting to have the Church's tax-exempt status revoked in the United States, and to inform the general public on the sordid past and dangers of the Church of Scientology.
How does Anonymous accomplish its goals?
Anonymous attempts to campaign against the Church of Scientology by holding worldwide, simultaneous protests, organizing through the internet, and coordinating with other long-time critics and opponents of the Church of Scientology.
How did Anonymous start?
Anonymous has no official founded beginning, but has been an internet group for years.
I heard Anonymous are dangerous hackers/violent terrorists.
Although it is true that the first actions attributed to Anonymous have been DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks, black faxes and prank calls, most members of Anonymous have decided to use conventional methods such as lobbying senators and nonviolent protests to spread Anonymous's message. Anonymous has never been linked to any violent acts against people, buildings or public property. While some Anonymous members may possess skills one could use for hacking, the vast majority of Anonymous are regular, concerned citizens.
Why did Anonymous “go peaceful”?
The initial actions of Anonymous prompted rebukes from longtime Scientology critics, the most prominent being Mark Bunker. Through a video log on YouTube[1], Mr. Bunker expressed his understanding of Anonymous's goals and its methods, but noted Anonymous's danger in harming the cause that he has been fighting for. He pleaded with Anonymous to stop the DDoS attacks, and prank calls, and to mature into a movement designed to protest the Church of Scientology. Moved by Mr. Bunker’s words, many members of Anonymous decided to take their efforts in the directions he prescribed: nonviolent protest, lobbying of local representatives, and action to revoke the Church of Scientology’s tax exempt status in the United States. Since then, Anonymous has made numerous picketing attempts against Scientology. The most successful protest to date has been a worldwide protest on February 10th, 2008, by Anonymous in major cities all around the globe.
Who are Anonymous members?
Anonymous is everyone and no one. Anonymous is everywhere and nowhere. Anonymous has chosen to remain decentralized and thus there are no so-called card-carrying Anonymous members. Anyone is free to call themselves Anonymous if they want to, even those who oppose Anonymous's goals.
If anyone can call themselves Anonymous, how do I know if someone is actually Anonymous?
Anonymous chooses to be judged, not by who their members are, but by what they say and do. Although there are many disagreements in Anonymous about methods and course of action, one must look at what the majority of those calling themselves Anonymous advocate for. The majority of Anonymous will want to remain nonviolent. The majority of Anonymous will want to protest. The majority of Anonymous will want to speak rationally and peacefully to interested or concerned citizens. Almost all Anonymous will condemn any violent acts against the Church of Scientology or its members.
Why do you remain anonymous? Why do you wear masks?
The Church of Scientology has a long history of harassing those who are critics of its organization. They refer to this policy as “Fair Game”, and although such policy has been officially out of use for many years, the church has spoken with their actions to silence critics. Critics like Mark Bunker of XenuTV, John Sweeny of the BBC, and Paulette Cooper have all been harassed over phone, in print, and in person for exercising their right to free speech. It should become clear from these examples why Anonymous chooses to remain anonymous. The Church of Scientology has had a long history of harassing, intimidating, blackmailing and slandering Scientology’s critics. They hire private investigators to keep a watchful eye on their opponents, notify communities and companies that a Scientology critic is a child molester or anti-religious, and will go to extreme lengths to silence critics. Because they have been known to do such things, any member of Anonymous puts his or herself in danger by revealing his or her face, or having their personal information disclosed.
How do I contact Anonymous?
There are currently several websites being created in order to alert the general public of Anonymous’ goals and presence. This site is a perfect way for those wishing to know Anonymous’ next big protest or action.
