Western Reader
The streets of San Francisco became a battleground as thousands of protesters converged to voice their strong opposition to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. Demonstrators clashed with riot police in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings, marking a significant display of civic unrest not seen since 1945.
The diverse coalition of activists expressed discontent with the perceived prioritization of corporate interests over human rights and environmental concerns. They accused President Biden of deceit and indifference to pressing global issues such as environmental degradation and international conflicts.
“No 2 APEC” protestors were confronted by San Francisco police officers in riot gear on Mission and Fifth streets.📷: | Gina Castro#APEC #USAPEC2023 #APEC2023SF pic.com/xOgbvlQpdT
— The San Francisco Standard (@sfstandard) November 15, 2023
San Francisco officials had made extensive efforts to present the city positively for the summit, even conducting a massive clean-up operation to shield visiting dignitaries from the city’s homeless population. However, the discontent brewing on the streets was not quelled by this sanitization effort.
The summit, which began on a Saturday and is scheduled to run through November 17, saw high-profile guests such as the CEOs of Microsoft, Google, and Salesforce in attendance. California Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom were among the local dignitaries welcoming Chinese leader Xi Jinping upon his arrival.
#HappeningNow: 5th & Mission; demonstrators link arms to
block intersection. Protest organized by “No to APEC” coalition. Dozens of @SFPD in riot gear about a half block away from them. @KTVU pic.com/LZ2HjCi7Yn— Allie Rasmus KTVU (@arasmusKTVU) November 15, 2023
The voices of the protesters echoed through downtown San Francisco amidst the international diplomacy. They marched against what they labeled as the facade of “clean” and “green” economies, arguing that these only bolster corporate profits at the expense of the environment and working conditions.
The No APEC Coalition, a prominent group in the protests, described the summit as an elitist gathering that serves the interests of big business rather than the common good. They strongly opposed APEC’s free trade agenda, claiming it leads to exploitation and environmental harm.
The tension between the protesters and law enforcement reached a peak when riot police lined up to keep a watchful eye on the demonstrators, donning riot gear to control the crowd and ensure the safety of summit participants.
The APEC summit, including 21 member countries such as the United States, China, Mexico, Brazil, and the Philippines, aims to foster economic cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region. However, this year’s summit in San Francisco will be remembered not only for its diplomatic dialogues but also for the stark reminder of the deep divisions and fervent activism shaping public discourse on global economic policies.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings