by LEP
Sat Oct 16th, 2010 at 01:59:28 PM EST
just like me. Oh, never mind, I retired at 63.
Another huge march in downtown Paris today. Actually there were two; one which went from Republique to Bastille and then to Nation (the one I took); the other went directly to Nation via Blvd. Voltaire. And thousands were on the sidewalks giving their support.
The first group of photos have posted below in the comments is of the assemblage of the march that was passing by Republique; very near the Cirque d'Hiver.
just south of Republique.
The second group is of the march from Cirque d'Hiver to Bastille.
Finally, I've added a few shots from Bastille looking back toward Republique taken about 6p.m. The line kept coming until about 7:30 when it ended where I was standing. I believe it continued until Nation.
Update [2010-10-17 13:48:16 by LEP]: Finally, I would like to say a few words with regard to the nature of this movement. It's really only partially about the eligible ages for retirement. To me, it's more of a protest against Sarkozy and his authoritarian way of doing things. He rammed through these changes in the retirement law with no consultation with the unions, the opposition or, most importantly, the people. For all I know his changes may be justified but the people don't trust him and he hasn't even bothered to make his case. I don't know how this can end; maybe his own party will throw him under the bus ;)
I would also add, if I understand him correctly, that Melanchthon thinks this affair is an attempt by the right to break the unions, a la Reagan. So, this is a matter of life and death for the unions. If they lose, it's "America in France" in not too long.
