Night watch

10.15.2003

Went out last night to take a turn w/ the neighborhood watch. After a brief meeting, we were told to wear a white sash around our right arm and given instructions for different contingencies.

Mostly, we just walked around San Miguel, or gathered together to drink coffee. It was a quiet night. We did unblock the Avenida Costanera, brushing aside stones and a giant tree.

But I did get a good chance to talk to several people about the events. Most of the neighbors here understand the frustrations of the people from El Alto and the campesinos. But they also support using democratic means to affect change, not violence.

La Paz is still tense, while the protests are gaining steam in Cochabamba. Things are still quiet in Santa Cruz.

Posted by Miguel at 11:38 AM

Comments

Really interesting stuff, Miguel. Keep up the great work. I'm eager to see how things unfold in La Paz.

If you're interested in a round-up of news stories and analysis, I'm compiling links to various media coverage at:

http://www.newley.com/archive/reading/2003_10_01_reading_archive.html#106623475310173164

Best,
Newley Purnell

Posted by: Newley Purnell at October 15, 2003 01:13 PM