From the around the world reports I've been reading, toadfrog, many of them have been spontaneous, maybe not the SF one.

Yes, the citizenry are aware of the war, etc., but the powers that be did not listen before. To not register dissent is to give tacit consent and that is something many do not wish to do. Also, it is NOT just in America. People all over the world are not going along with it, before or during and that is their right. And, they are not just a few hippies and college students as the Vietnam protests are chacterised. These are people from all walks of life, all levels of education, class, etc. It is heartening to me to see such a coherence among the peoples of this planet, making their voices heard. If the leaders choose to turn deaf ears, then it will continue. To not protest, to just "lie back and enjoy it" to borrow the horrible old adage for women about rape, would be to give up and give the world leaders carte blanche and that many of us cannot abide.

I do agree, however, that ambulances should not be blocked, property should not be damaged, people should not be harmed, i.e. the rallies and protests should be peaceful. Although, civil disobedience does involve less than peaceful outcomes. I do respect the ones who are able to follow through on their convictions.

kat