More than 20,000 people, including high school students, parents, teachers, and union members, gathered in Lyon on Tuesday morning to demand more resources for the national education system. The demonstration was a response to widespread concerns about underfunded schools and the increasing use of force by police during student protests. Parents joined the demonstration to support their children and highlight concerns about police repression. One parent, identified as Renaud, stated, "We are not a total protection but we can help avoid abuses."
Inès, a 14-year-old student, was joined by her mother, Gisèle, who carried a sign reading "Daronnes dans la rue, gare à ton cul." Gisèle explained that she wanted to be present to support her daughter's first demonstration and to ensure her safety. She expressed concern about the current level of police violence, noting that her daughter had been injured in previous protests. According to the government, 215 students have been injured since the movement began on September 28, with most injuries resulting from accidents or actions by third parties.
Gisèle also emphasized the role of the middle class in mobilizing for social issues, stating that it is not normal for students in certain areas to lack basic resources like a French teacher for six months. Inès, while supportive of her parents' presence, indicated she would not remain with them during the march. Parents like Fabrice, who came from the Ain region, joined the demonstration to support their children and ensure their safety. Fabrice mentioned that his son had been participating in school blockades and wanted to be present for the protest.
Renaud, part of a collective of parents supporting the students, expressed concern about police actions and emphasized the need to avoid unnecessary controls. He noted that the collective had helped prevent identity checks and bag searches for a group of young people heading to the demonstration. Émilie, another parent, joined the collective and expressed pride in her son's participation in the movement, emphasizing the legitimacy of the students' demands. She encouraged her son to stay safe and not isolate himself during the protests.
The demonstration, which started at 10:30 a.m. from Place Bellecour, included thousands of students and was supported by adults, with local CGT sections providing security between the police and the students. According to the prefecture, more than 20,000 people participated in the demonstration.
Large Protests in Lyon Over Education Funding and Police Repression
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