By: Vivienne C.
Cover photo: Daiyu Tang
On December 15th CU campus witnessed quite an active political mobilization day, at first by the pro-capitalist faction led by Dean Carly Cox and Sarah Gage, Beta Iota Chi (BIX) queen. A lively discussion took place and gathered around but it was a peaceful assembly which dispersed afterwards for the Anti-Pink Tax protest.
That day, I was there for reporting but was also amongst the protestors. I did not know the organisers motives nor spoke with them prior (which is a lesson learned for me) but went to support the vocal political opposition to inequality.
While initially it began with the customary chants and then a speech by the leader of the protest. Mr. Deman Turner, a lecturer on Anarchism at the university, his words soon took an inflammatory turn. He aimed to incite anger amongst those gathered and made false claims against the clinic. He then proceeded to kick open the clinic door and invite the protestors to loot the clinic.
Zofia Lewandowska, CU clinic manager and CU reporter for the Observer was distraught and had to physically protect the building and prevent entry. From then, chaos erupted. Turner was carrying a Moltov along with at least one other protestor. CUPD, FDH and even HPD were there to ensure the protest did not become a riot which it was in danger of doing very quickly.
The majority of us, in the CUPD and HPD response only suffered the irritation from being teargassed, Turner was subdued in part by Carly Cox who tackled him and he was then was tasered later and arrested by CUPD. The damage to the protest was done.
You can follow some of the evolving story on the live Twitter thread that went on at the time.
Now that I have summarised to you Reader, what happened that day. I would like to reflect on why violence is damaging and delegitimising to protest movements. The negative consequences of violent protests can outweigh any potential benefits. I explore below the reasons why protests that resort to violence are generally unsuccessful in achieving lasting change.
Loss of Public Support
One of the primary reasons violent protests fail is the rapid loss of public support. While peaceful demonstrations can garner sympathy and understanding, violence tends to alienate the general public. The destruction of property, clashes with law enforcement, and overall chaos can overshadow the original message of the protest, turning public opinion against the cause.
Reinforcement of Negative Stereotypes
Violent protests can perpetuate negative stereotypes and prejudices, playing into the hands of those who oppose the cause. Resorting to violence is often interpreted as a sign of desperation or lack of faith in the legitimacy of the cause. Credibility is crucial in gaining the support of the wider community and influential stakeholders.
Escalation of Repressive Measures
Authorities are more likely to respond with increased force and repression when faced with violent protests. This escalation can lead to further injuries, loss of life, and erosion of civil liberties. Engaging in violent actions can result in legal consequences for protesters. Arrests, prosecutions, and imprisonment which diverts energy and resources away from the cause and can have long-lasting negative effects on the lives of those involved.
While the very act of taking to the streets is underlined by frustrations that are often valid, the means chosen to express dissent play a crucial role in determining the success or failure of the movement. Non-violent protests have historically proven to be more effective in garnering public support, fostering credibility, and bringing about lasting change.
We must engage more constructively with each other and be creative in our opposition. The goal should never be overshadowed by the means.
Stay Safe Hathian.
