Even knowing that change is unlikely many gathered to voice their opposition to budget cuts

Lupe Torres was laid off in January 2010 because the school she worked for was forced to close a million dollar budget gap. The school had already laid off teachers in September of last year, so the recent round of layoffs came as a surprise. Torres works as a cashier at Whole Foods to pay the bills.

"The protest was very organized as there were many different schools across the grades that showed up. It was so nice seeing elementary schools, middle schools, high school, community colleges, Cal State Universities, and UC Schools together along with so many non-profit organizations that work with youth," Torres said of the March to stop budget cuts that was held March 4th, from 24th and Mission BART station to Civic Center Plaza.

Dulio Quintero also attended the event yesterday, but joined at Civic Center. When asked if he saw a solution to the budget cuts he said, "Maybe taxes should be raised, Prop 13 overturned, although I think that could have some negative consequences. Tax oil corporations, who apparently don't pay taxes in California. However, I think the government will be reluctant to change things too much, so things might not even change."

Students across the state gathered in opposition. Many held signs, wore shirts with creative slogans, and peacefully walked the sidewalks.

Although there was so much participation, it was rather sad to watch protesters listen to the shouts and directions of the police. However, one student ran down the middle of the street yelling, "TAKE BACK THE STREETS, YOU WONT CHANGE ANYTHING BY FOLLOWING THE RULES!"



Edit (3/5/10 7p.m.): Here are some sound's from the civic center protest
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