Have You Ever Been to a Protest?

Protests play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and driving social change. They are powerful tools for raising awareness and promoting a cause. However, not everyone actively participates in them, especially in the digital age where online activism can be just as impactful. Let's explore different personal experiences and observations of protests.

Protest and Personal Values

As an individual, my personal values have influenced whether I would actively participate in protests. I have only been to protests as a passive observer, such as when I was in West Los Angeles during a Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest in 2020. Without prior knowledge, I found myself in the middle of a chaotic scene. The protesters, mostly young, white college students, were blocking streets, smoking, and partying. Their primary motive seemed to be self-promotion on social media rather than a genuine concern for the cause they were supporting. One plastic bottle nearly hit my car, and I could not help but shout, "GO HOME POSERS!"

Protests in Paris

On a Bastille Day walk in Paris in 2011, I encountered a large crowd, unaware that a protest was happening. Initially, I thought it was just a festive atmosphere. However, as the noise increased, I noticed people were marching and shouting slogans. The energy and intensity of the crowd made it clear that this was a serious protest, not just a celebration. This experience highlighted how public events can sometimes turn into significant social movements.

A Deadliest Protest: A Personal Account

One year ago, I witnessed the most intense protest of my 18 years of life. The entire state erupted with anger, and university students were at the forefront. Public communication was severely disrupted for almost a fortnight, and the national media did little to provide accurate information. Surprisingly, the professors supported the students, further fueling the protests. Senior citizens also joined the movement, visibly moved by the passion of the young activists.

The reasons for such a protest are complex and sensitive, so I will refrain from discussing them. However, what stands out is the strong public sentiment and the involvement of women in every aspect of the movement. Another image from a friend's social media status further illustrated the intensity of the situation.

This experience taught me about the power of social media in spreading information and the role of national media in shaping public opinion. It is often challenging to get accurate and unbiased information in such situations. In times of crisis, people turn to alternative sources for updates, such as meme pages and YouTube channels.

These personal experiences offer insights into the human side of protests, from the enthusiastic and sometimes misguided to the passionate and deeply moving. Protests are not just about policies or laws; they are about the power of collective voice and the willingness to stand up for what one believes in, even in the face of adversity.