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Parents have no right to being their children along to protests. It's a cynical thing to do, especially when you consider that the parent/child combos can end up in the forefront of the crowd because it makes good pictures and so the most vulnerable individuals in the crowd (both physically and mentally) are the most exposed. I realise that this isn't always the case, but it is an option for the more ruthless and publicity hungry organisers.
I'd say it will definately colour some of the children's attitudes. To use local examples, the children that were brought to the protests around Holy Cross Girls Primary will without a doubt be affected by what they've been exposed to, as will those children who are brought along to march in the Orange Order's parades, complete with miniature sashes and instruments in some cases. In a sense the future core of the next generation's harcore nationalist/republican communities is being forged in these protests.
Yes, I know I'm being generalist in the previous paragraph. The children will naturally experience shifts in their opinions and attitudes as they grow up, but having been a part of these protests will inevitably leave its mark. How is a ten year-old child meant to view the police force when it has been confronted by brigades of officers in riot gear, backed up by the military, on a yearly basis? And can you really tell me that a six year-old girl will ever forget being heckled by an angry mob in front of her school?
I've got friends who are hard-core unionists as well as friends who are hard-core republicans. When asked about how they formed their attitudes both camps include experiences they had while growing up as a key factor, attending rallies and protests being amongst the most significant of these. These 18 to 24 year-olds are sure to affect the political climate in the province for at least three more decades if not more, be it simply through the voting process.
Anyway, I'm ranting. Sorry. But the point had to be made. |
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