What Should I Do?

[Noah]

Hey guys,

I'm 14 almost 15 and I've been into politics for over a year now. To get more involved I joined a group of people who do demonstrations and rally's for human right and anti-imperialism and other things.

Well..my dad was always happy that I was interested in Communism because he fought for the Communists in Iraq.

Anyway I told them I was going to this demonstration and they wouldn't let me like they didn't care, they said the government didn't listen and it was unsafe.

Making up all these stupid reasons why I shouldn't go, Like i'd get arrested and or stabbed and so on.

I'm not sure whether I should just stay at home and not help desperate and oppressed people due to my parent's ignorance or go and stand up for my rights?

Do you think they have a point?, by the way don't take me for a small 14 year old that can't take care of himselfself...I'm pretty massive, I'm pretty smart and intelligent enough ;)

[Clarksist]

Go for it.

If you believe that this demonstration may make a difference, then I say go. Why? Because a lot of times parents say things that they feel they HAVE to.

Deep down, your father may want you to go, but his parental obligations say no.

*NOTE*: I am not liable for anything. :P

[Noah]

hehe thanks Clarksist

[eukreign]

Protests don't achieve anything. You will have better luck educating yourself about your cause and developing good arguments. Then convincing people to your side by discussion as you meet people throughout your life. Or go out of your way to meet people.

Leftists are a minority and most people will not pay attention to your protest.

[redstar2000]

I think you should go.

This is not a question about the "effectiveness" of protest or whether or not people "pay attention" to it.

It's about your first act of resistance to the system.

As Mao noted correctly, even the longest journey begins with a single step.

http://www.websmileys.com/sm/cool/123.gif

[violencia.Proletariat]

your parents are just protecting you, they dont want you hurt. and unless its gonna damage your relationship with them for the rest of your lives, go.

[Red Powers]

Noah, I have to second Redstar. I think my first demonstration was at about 16 -- anti-Vietnam war. I don't think I asked my parents for permission. I have a son who is 14 and if he asked me I'd be real happy but I might have to say no if his Mom were around.

[viva le revolution]

By all means you should go to this demonstration.
However your more pressing concern should be developing an understanding of your political beliefs. Find out where you stand through the aquisition of knowledge then join or create a political group according to your beliefs. Demonstrations without a clear political agenda are useless. Your first priority should be your own understanding of politics, then only will you be most effective at whatever action you take.

[Commie Rat]

me smells some DA mmmm delicoius DA, its almost orgasmic