Lock ons refers to a type of strategy or tactic employed in various contexts, specifically relating to protests, activism, or environmental movements. The term essentially refers to a physically disruptive action that involves individuals attaching themselves or their bodies to objects or structures as a form of protest or civil disobedience.
In terms of protesting, lock ons typically involve activists using devices or mechanisms to fasten their bodies to fixed objects such as fences, gates, trees, or infrastructure like pipelines or machinery. This act of physically locking themselves onto these objects serves to obstruct or impede the normal functioning of the targeted element, thereby drawing attention to their cause or grievances.
Lock ons can take several forms, ranging from the use of handcuffs, chains, bike locks, or other sturdy materials. These attachments are usually specifically designed to be difficult to remove or dismantle, requiring the involvement of authorities or experts to disengage the protesters.
Lock ons are often employed in environmental campaigns to prevent the destruction of natural habitats or to stall the progress of construction projects, particularly those deemed detrimental to ecosystems or indigenous communities. This technique aims to capture media attention, raise awareness, and put pressure on authorities or corporations to reconsider their actions or policies.
Overall, lock ons serve as a powerful tool for civil disobedience, giving protesters a physically visible means to disrupt and challenge systems or practices they deem unethical or harmful.
