FlickR Tag: downtown

Photos of downtown that were originally uploaded to FlickR

Sort of disguised

by Robert Thivierge
Sort of disguised
Many of the anti-racist protesters wore masks, to protect their identity. Given the violent record of the Aryan Guard that's somewhat understandable. But, personally, I see masks as a false sense of security. People have a right to wear them as a political statement or even a fashion statement (which some seemed to be). But, I really don't think they hid anybody's identity. A number of protesters would even take the masks off, then put them back on, as though they would return to "anonymity".

No, you won’t bust my camera

by Robert Thivierge
No, you won't bust my camera
This is a neo-Nazi who had just told photographers that he would bust the camera of anybody who took his picture. Naturally, photographers took his picture anyhow, and he tried knocking a camera out of one's hands (not me). According to news reports, he is accused of hitting a photographer with a skateboard. I don't remember seeing that (just him going for the guy), but was intentionally staying back, and missed some significant details (looking through a long lens limits what you see). The police promptly detained him. He kept on acting tough and threatening, seemingly trying to go for photogs, even when being taken away. On this matter, the cops did a great job. They only interfered with criminals.

A view against racism

by Robert Thivierge
A view against racism
Taken at an anti-racist rally outside City Hall in downtown Calgary on Sunday, March 21, 2010. The ARA (Anti-Racist Action) was countering the Aryan Guard, which previously would stage a 30-60 person "white pride" march on this day of the year, but this year, just had a few random people show up (none in this particular picture).