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Read a detailed interview explaining the organizing principles of CLAC (la Convergence des luttes anti-capitalistes/The Anti-Capitalist Convergence of Montreal), the anti-capitalist group organizing the actions in Quebec City this week. This interview expains CLAC's respect for a diversity of actions and their recognition of the profound violence of structural adjustment programs, poverty, and displacement.

A peaceful but loud march kicked off Quebec City actions against the FTAA and global capitalism. Thousands marched through the streets with torches, shouting in French, English and Spanish. Union members, anarchists and others walked together in solidarity. The march ended with a live music show, freestyle hip-hop and tons of free food from Food Not Bombs. Read a detailed summary.

In Quebec City, thousands marched through the streets to the security perimeter surrounding the Summit of the America's. Massive crowds rushed forward toppling large sections of the metal fence to the ground. Unable to prevent the action, the police employed a defensive strategy, lobbing numerous tear gas canisters at the protesters. Tear gas continues to waft through the air, allegedly forcing the Summit proceedings to end early, as delegates share the protesters' discomfort.

The San Francisco IMC folks in Quebec would like to create a nice, long update for all of our readers... unfortunately, we have been under CS gas attack... one of us had to flee on a highway and jump down a cliff to escape rioting cops, another one of us got 3rd degree burns on his hand... another had her gas mask stolen by an undercover cop... and now there are a bunch of riot police right outside our door... and so, we're going to try to go to bed before the big day tomorrow. In the meantime, you can read this summary and this other summary, and check out all the pictures we've published in the newswire. In the meantime, we have renewed confidence after hearing news that the FTAA summit was severely disrupted by protest activities and all the CS gas in the air.

Corporate Media Hides Out in Safety While Cops Gas and Beat Everyone
Quebec police are waging warfare against protesters, citizens, and anyone who is not behind their security wall. People are being shot point-blank with tear gas guns, plastic bullet guns, and water cannons. One person was hit in the throat with a plastic bullet and is severely injured. Indymedia is setting up a triage unit to deal with the masses of injured people. Quebec 911 is hanging up on people because they are overwhelmed with calls from brutalized citizens.

Protesters are defending their right to assemble and voice opposition to the fascist FTAA proceedings. Black bloc members are holding their position by throwing molotov cocktails and rocks. There is all-out war throughout the city and outside the indymedia center. Many other protesters have been pushed back onto the highway (see picture). Links and more coverage on this page to follow. In the meantime, continue to check this newswire for pictures and breaking news.

Arrests continue as things quiet down and tear gas lingers in the air.

As of 8:30PM, 253 people (236 men & 17 women) remain incarcerated. Human rights abuses are rampant; at least one class action lawsuit will allegedly be leveled against the prison for brutality. Approximately 60 people maintain the solidarity vigil outside the jail. In Montreal, 10,000 students are striking in support of the prisoners. Visit quebec2001.net to contribute to the legal defense fund.
Read an overview of the weekend's protests from: Studio 220 Collective (with Video) | Santa Cruz affinity group