G20

On Thursday, at around seven, we walked down towards Oakland, feeling excited, nervous, curious about what could be going on. The statues outside the museum were covered with cloth, which sparked only more curiosity. What could be going on? Just off of Forbes, passed the museum, we see a huge crowd of people gathering.

As some of the previous posters said, it was disappointing at first. There were a handful of people who were serious about the issues, but the majority of the crowd were like us - inquisitive bystanders. There were signs that read things like, "Bring back Firefly," (a TV Show), or, "If your happy and you know it, clap your hands." I heard someone in front of me sigh and say, "Why are we here?" and I completely understood this sentiment. About 30 yards away, down the street, were about 60 policemen and countless cars, all of which were ready for anything. The people in the front were the ones who were serious, and their chants slowly got louder and louder. Still, there seemed to be no significant action or spirit in the crowd, and so we left to have dinner by the University of Pittsburgh's campus.

We came back afterwards, and were startled: the gap between the police and the people disappeared; there were about 10 on horses just a few feet away from us. There were still chants, but no action. Everyone seemed too intimidated.

The next day, I learned that after we left, chaos ensued, and I was thankful I wasn't there. A friend, who goes to the University of Pittsburgh, videotaped some amazing, startling footage from her dorm. People got beaten, arrested, tear gassed - many were just trying to walk by, to get home. I still don't know how I feel about the riots; I admire someone who goes to such lengths to demonstrate what they believe in, but, at the same time, I think they have to realize the consequences of their actions, and know if what they're doing really has the effect they want it to have.

Though I hate that all this violence had to happen, I feel like I'd be surprised if it didn't. The G20 did decide to meet in a city with a high population of rowdy college kids.

Last night, I passed by UPitt's campus and saw police still standing around the streets. Their faces were solemn, grave, serious. I couldn't help but think about what they're going through, too. I'm sure they hate what they have to do sometimes - and I think that when looking back at this event, we have to consider the many perspectives, duties, and values of the people that took part in it.

Sorry this is so late; I had trouble posting before.