Student protest medics prepare for risks

During Act V of the student protests on October 24, street medics like Biscotte are preparing for potential injuries and repression. Biscotte carries a banana filled with compresses and two pairs of gloves on each hand, serving as his survival kit. These medics are volunteers trained in first aid, without official uniforms or mandates, who assist during demonstrations, often facing police violence.

Incident at Place de la République

On October 17, at Place de la République, a street medic named Antoine was struck by a police officer and collapsed, leading to confusion on social media. Antoine later denied reports of his death. Another medic, Malo, noted increased police tensions towards medics, with several acts of violence recorded since the start of the student mobilization. Medics now try to hide their equipment, as helping others is seen as resistance.

Legal and police tensions

In Rouen, a street medic was arrested while aiding those injured by a neo-Nazi militia. He filed a complaint against the group. In Strasbourg, an investigation was opened after a video showed demonstrators and medics being beaten by police. In Le Mans, a medic was struck with a baton by police, describing the officer as having "hatred in his eyes."

Injuries and psychological impact

During Act V at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, Biscotte scans for distress and helps organize medics along the demonstration route. He anticipates the need for makeshift infirmaries and emphasizes the importance of being visible to those in the front lines. The injuries from police weapons include contusions, open wounds, burns, and fractures. Psychological trauma from repression is also significant.

Journalist injured during protest

During the demonstration, a journalist was injured with an unknown foreign object embedded in her leg. Medics bandaged around it to prevent movement and escorted her out of the demonstration, as firefighters could not navigate the crowd. Biscotte helped her until the firefighters arrived, providing comfort and support.

Motivations and risks

Malo acknowledges the risks faced by medics, including being targeted by police. Despite the dangers, medics continue their work out of altruism, seeking to help rather than recognition. Passersby often thank them, which provides a sense of fulfillment despite the risks.