Violent Protest

I wish to express my concern over the implications that will result from the various student protest movements, being carried out so frequently. As a former student of a North American university, in which demonstrations were for matters more personally affecting the students, I have experienced the consequences of these protests. I am seeing the whole picture repeat itself here on this campus. Whether one agrees or not, New Zealand is one of the most free countries in the world; having minimal racial prejudism, unlimited free speech and police to whom you can actually talk. I am certainly not saying that I do not support the issues behind the protest marches. I am also sure, a lot more of the "establishment" hold the same views and concerns, than the students realize.

The key to change is not by alienating the public against students, which is what is happening when obscenities are shouted, paint is thrown, or violence of any kind breaks out. Believe me, unless more mature tactics are used the word "student" will imply a total rejection by any non-student. With this rejection comes frustration and understandable violence, resulting in very relevant matters to protest. Police then find they have unlimited freedom in the treatment of the "objectionables". Perhaps you have to watch your friends vomiting from tear gas or being beaten brutally by a 'friendly' police officer, but I have seen it happen from far less provocation, than what the students are getting away with here. I cannot help feeling that some of the protestors are more concerned with the excitement of the demonstration than the issue behind it, but whatever the reason, I just hope they don't push their luck too far.

Been through it before.