The most adorable protest ever
The French love to protest. Generally, these protests are frequent, well-organized and (mostly) peaceful. I don't usually pay too much attention to the protests here in Paris because I don't feel like doing the mental pushups to figure out what they are all about.
Colour me oblivious. I'm fine with that.
But recently I came upon a protest that made me stop in my tracks and giggle with delight. Kiddies were learning the ins and outs of an effective protest. I mean, in France, it is in the curriculum.This little protest was about the saving the environment. This was my first clue:
And saving these weird things... coral? Wind? Chinese food plates?
This turtle was discussing inter-species bonding with a Disney-influenced fish and shark, who are obviously friends because that's life according to Walt Disney.
This is one gleeful shark and a rather confused lobster. Most of the sea creatures were confused. This must have been their first protest.
Butterflies were a popular choice.
Mom brought her umbrella. I'd love to see the scene after that rainstorm. Paint and paper mush galore. One little umbrella?
Hey Mr. Tambourine Man play a song for me. He's a very serious little tambourine player.
More lobsters and a school of Nemos brought up the rear.
This was a very adorable little exercise and I think the kiddies had a fun (but slightly confused) time protesting in their crafty little costumes. I couldn't help but wonder why this was being taught in school. Then I came upon a very familiar sign that hangs outside many schools here in Paris.
Whenever I see this sign I feel socked in the gut.
A rough translation: In memory of the children of this school who were deported between 1942 and 1944 because they were born Jewish, innocent victims of the barbaric Nazis, with complete complicity of the Vichy government. They were killed in death camps.
Ooohhhh myyyyyy gawd.
So I understand these training exercises and why they are important. Keep up the good work, kids.
