The Referendum March Begins
Yesterday saw the start of what is to be a seven week march around Taiwan. The purpose of the march is to emphasize to the government than any decisions of national importance, especially in relation to China should be made by the people via a referendum.
I went to the march with the very well known David, where we took in the beginning of the march, as well as walking as far as Ximending with the group.
By Taiwan’s standards, the gathering was quite small, though it should grow as time passes.
I have seen this guy at many rallies, carrying the same sign
and wearing the same clothes. Actually, he seemed quite out
of step with most of the other marchers, who were more sombre
and who were more neatly dressed and hygienic. Actually,
I kinda wondered if many of the marchers really wanted him there
as he is perhaps not the mug you want your cause associated with.
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The slogan for the event is “The people are the masters” (人民做主) was
clearly visible on the shirts the protesters wore. I was surprised at how almost
everyonebought the straw hats and long sleeved t-shirts.
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Before heading out, some speeches were made
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More after the break
The music starts and…
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the march begins.
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Marchers wait at a red light.
This was, I think, the most orderly protest I have been at. While we were walking, the marchers stayed almost perfectly two abreast and although there were organizers at every intersection with orange batons, everyone was following the rules of the road. Walking only 2×2 and stopping for red lights, the marchers did get quite spread apart.
David chats up one of the onlookers.
I would definitely encourage everyone to have a look at David’s blog, as he covers the politics much better than I do. Of course, he has some great photos too.
Tags: march, politics, protest, rally, referendum, Taipei, Taiwan