Out of the frying pan..
Of all the protests that I’ve covered since being in London, surely the prize for most unique chant must go to the “Citizens not Strangers” rally in Parliament Square on Friday;
“What do we want?”
“To pay taxes!”
“When do we want to?”
“Now!”
A slightly different cry from the poll tax riots of old..
Organised to highlight the plight of Zimbabwean immigrants who have fled their native country for our shores but are now facing red-tape, bureaucracy and regulations that either block their applications for residency or forbid them from working, banners chants and hand-drums accompanied the rallying cries. With a few speeches from politicians (that can never sound like anything but rent-a-purpose soundbites), campaigners and religious leaders, Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu took centre stage with considered and appropriate words.
It’s a real shame when you get to hear from Zimbabwean refugees who are desperate for change on one day, then find out that China and Russia have vetoed the rest of the G8′s sanction plans the next. Sanctions certainly aren’t always the answer but without action, it just leaves politicians making ineffective “down with this sort of thing” speeches in forgettable press conferences. Mugabe must be quaking in his boots.
I’d love to see him wearing a quote from *George* A Romero.
hehe Well spotted!
“Night of the Risen Dead (for it is Him..)”
I was at the protest as well and not only were their chants great but their singing was great as well! Certainly the happiest protesters i’ve ever seen, which is remarkable given their situation!
Nice one, my liege..