Yesterday Bangkok’s famous Democracy Monument saw one of the largest political rallies since COVID restrictions were set in place. Thousands of pro-democracy protesters flocked to the aptly-named monument on Sunday.
Free Youth, a Thai pro-democracy group, called for changes in Thailand’s laws as well as to putting an end to harassing people expressing their right to freedom of speech. The group has over 350,000 followers on Facebook.
Thousands of people took to the monument. Many of them were wearing black and carrying protest signs and props. The student-led rally centered around a stage located right next to Democracy Monument facing Ratchadamnoen Road. At around 3pm, the crowd of participants had grown to enormous numbers.
Traffic became impossible and the entire area was closed off to oncoming cars and motorcyclists. The rally was extremely well organised, however. Speakers and performers took turns taking the stage and sharing with the crowd. Performances included musicians, comedians and spoken word. Speeches were made including a short appearance from activist and lawyer Anon Nampa. Nampa spoke on change and adjustments to Thai law.
Police were present for the gathering with many of them located within the fenced off monument. Minimal issues arose with only smaller verbal conflicts happening between Pro-Democracy and Pro-Royalist groups. The feeling of the evening was warm and lighthearted. Laughter and good-nature filled the streets all night. The crowd displayed cell phone flashlights periodically throughout the evening during softer songs and some participants even danced.
“It is the fight for democracy,” one Pro-Abortion demonstrator said, “Let it end in our generation!” Many other groups attended and participated including LGBT rights groups and sex-worker rights groups. At one point in the evening a huge LGBT flag was passed over the crowds’ heads.
The Free Youth rally ended in song and with the crowd on their feet singing. Participants put three fingers in the air alluding to the film Hunger Games symbolising respect and gratitude.
More events like Sundays are being planned currently in Bangkok and more information can be found at their website:
