If the streets seem especially thick with disaffected youth this rainy afternoon, cast blame in the general direction of Youth Against War and Racism. The local chapter is staging a student walkout today at noon followed by a rally at Westlake Center.

While I like their motives — war (particularly this one) and racism are both bad news — I can’t help but think of Simon Rich’s “Shouts and Murmurs” piece from 26 March:

III. How College Kids Imagine the United States Government

THE PRESENT DAY

—Did you hear the news, Mr. President? The students at the University of Pittsfield are walking out of their classes, in protest over the war.

—(spits out coffee) Wha— What did you say?

—Apparently, students are standing up in the middle of lectures and walking right out of the building.

—But students love lectures. If they’re willing to give those up, they must really be serious about this peace thing! How did you hear about this protest?

—The White House hears about every protest, no matter how small.

—Oh, right, I remember.

—You haven’t heard the half of it, Mr. President. The leader of the group says that if you don’t stop the war today they’re going to . . . to . . . I’m sorry, I can’t say it out loud. It’s just too terrifying.

—Say it, damn it! I’m the President!

—All right! If you don’t stop the war . . . they’re going to stop going to school for the remainder of the week.

—Send the troops home.

—But, Mr. President! Shouldn’t we talk about this?

—Send the troops home.

[newyorker]

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4. Lake Stevens teacher threatens students, goes on leave
5. UW to poor students: You don’t owe us anything