Guide Note

A worldwide Scientology Protest was organized on February 11, 2008, by a group known as "Anonymous." Cities involved included Toronto, Sydney, New York City, Stockholm, Los Angeles, Boston and London.

1. Protesters covered their faces to maintain anonymity
2. Many protesters wore Guy Fawkes masks modeled after those in the movie V For Vendetta
3. News of the protest spread mainly via YouTube, MySpace, Facebook and other social websites
4. Protests were held outside of several Scientology churches
5. Many Scientology churches hired security for the day
6. In January of 2008, "Anonymous" hackers caused a disruption of service on the Church of Scientology website

"Anonymous is perpetrating religious hate crimes against Churches of Scientology and individual Scientologists for no reason other than religious bigotry. It is Anonymous that has repeatedly attempted to suppress free speech through illegal assaults on church websites so as to prevent internet users from obtaining information."—Statement from the Church of Scientology ¹

"Anonymous invites you to join us in an act of solidarity. Anonymous invites you to take up the banner of free speech, of human rights, of family and freedom. Join us in protest outside of Scientology centers world wide. We are Anonymous. We are Legion. We do not forgive. We do not forget. We will be heard. Expect us."— Excerpt from an "Anonymous" YouTube video ²