| Publication |
2013.
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| Summary/Abstract |
In September of 2000, I took part in the 'S11' protests in Melbourne during the World Economic Forum (WEF). Following in the wake of the 'Battle in Seattle' protests the preceding year, S11 was understood as a continuation of the push by 'the people' against the anonymous and destructive forces of global finance, underpinned by principles of neo-liberal globalization. I recall with particular clarity the events of one night during the WEF when, heading back to our motel after a long day of festivities and confrontations, we saw a rush of people toward one of the entries to the Crown Casino. It soon became apparent that some forum participants were either coming or going at this time and this became one of many flashpoints for conflict between protestors and police. Taking my place face to face with riot police and the horses on which some of them were mounted, the situation quickly intensified. There was a certain buzz to be had from facing off with police in this way; coming face to face with the visible face of sovereignty and screaming abuse at it. It was a moment in which we thought we knew what it was like to see through the mask of liberal democracy and experience the reality of a police state.
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