El jueves pasado, I left Spanish class and heard rhythmic protesting, and occasional kabams! (the norm in Argentina) Careful curiosity drew me near...
Plaza De Mayo was the site of the revolution in May 1810, and subsequent Argentinean independence. The Plaza sits right in front of the President’s House: Casa Rosada. (Equivalent to the U.S. White House)
I approached slowly. On high alert, head on a swivel. Wanting to get some snaps, but not wanting to intrude. Or, be jacked. Kept a safe distance, and surveyed the scene. Muchos protesters banging on the fence of Casa Rosada with small bats & bottles. Women, elderly & even children banging on the fence. Kicking it.
Away from the fence, the crowd was tame. Somewhat jovial. Women wearing Argentinean flags. People taking pics. Kids playing. Choripan vendors servin’ ‘em up. Almost like a tailgate for a big game. The energy was strong but not scary at all.
Argentineans are passionate people. The country is divided right now. The gist: former President Kirchner was just replaced in December. She and her family were very corrupt and proof has come to light. But, the new President Macri pardoned them. People are not happy. More info here.
In the end, I spent about an hour at the protest. Observing, documenting. Of course, my head remained on a swivel. (I do have street smarts)
And, thankfully, there was a TON of riot police all around. Glad I stayed.
