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Caught in the movement

8 June 2009

As part of the TUC activist academy, a course designed to equip young members in organising and recording an intervention into the G20 ‘put people first’ protest on 28 March 2009 gave four PCS young members some useful insights. North West YM convenor Phill Windsor reports from the protest.

Following a 4am start, we gathered in Liverpool to be picked up by coach. After a very long journey, we arrived in London just before 11am and met up with others from the activist academy.

Finding a place at the front of the march proved difficult; the number of people there meant we had to take up position near the end. Encouragingly the PCS marchers were up front, with a new banner.

Making a stand

We were due to start at 11am but an organisational blip meant we were left waiting round. We seized the opportunity to do some interviewing, including a chat with an MP from the monster raving loony party!

It was inspiring to hear differing views on what the G20 means to people. The general consensus was no matter your background, we’ve all been let down by current circumstances and it’s our duty to have our voices heard.

The march began at 12 noon. Accompanied by the sounds of the Salvation Army, we edged forward slowly and what would usually take half an hour, ended after four hours.

Many people, including some anarchists joined the march from side streets, slowing down the procession. We arrived at Hyde Park at 4pm shattered, quickly heading to the pub for a well earned drink and something to eat.

A worthwhile experience

Overall the march was amazing. I didn’t realise how exciting and colourful it would be. I’m proud to have been part of it and hope more young members get involved with future events.

Never thinking I would be interested in this type of activity, I can safely say I have the marching bug now.

• See for yourself how the day went by viewing the film made by the young members from the TUC activist academy www.youtube.com/strongerunions