Instead of A-level history, I received my first lesson on police provocation.
I also realised that although this student peace movement is young and inexperienced, it is passionate, diverse and creative.
We must prove we have a voice while democracy is being demolished. Last Friday we heard Tony Blair "listen" to youth on MTV, and then I switched over to witness his unequivocal support for a president prepared to bypass international law. If our leaders don't show respect for law, how can our country expect young people to?
I dream of seeing a policeman stand in front of Blair and tell him to "run home to mummy and contemplate your actions", as I was told to in Whitehall. Patronising this youth movement will not mend the resentment students feel towards politicians. I didn't walk out of school to agitate; I wanted peaceful protest. The police did not provide a responsible image.
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