Bahrain Protestors Rally Ahead of Anniversary

         The fight for reform in Bahrain has only begun. It has been one year since Shia protestors took to the streets in an effort to reduce the power of the Sunni al-Khalifa ruling dynasty. Their demands included greater equality for the Shia population and the end of King Hamad’s monarchy. The response to this protest was a violent crackdown on the unarmed protestors, including doctors and bloggers, by police.  

     As the anniversary of the protests approaches violence has begun to rise. This violence is becoming more apparent as thousands of protestors have gathered in the streets to join a newly organized demonstration. The rally is a result of the interior ministry’s denial of the protestors request to organize an open-ended demonstration. The rally continues to call for reform and the release of political prisoners. The injustice that has fallen on these prisoners includes beatings, raids, torture and in some instances death.

Protesters gather to demand change of their government.

     Violence continues to grow as splinter groups increase and clashes emerge between government supporters and protestors. A situation that will only get more critical as February 14^th, the date of the original protests, draws nearer.

     The battle for human rights is one fought all around the world. However, it’s taken for granted all the time. Somewhere along the way humanity has screwed up. We’ve ignored the cries of those we can’t see because we’re more concerned with our own lives. Our comfort has made us complacent. Remember this Valentine’s Day as you reach for the comfort of a loved one. Remember those who march for freedom. Remember those who die for freedom.

"Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed."

                                                                                                                       -Martin Luther King, Jr.