The recruitment center apparently decided to close for the day when confronted with the student demonstrators. It is believed that the recruiters and the LAPD knew of the planned action in advance due to the large deployment of police encountered at the center. About 15 protesters were able to get inside and address those at the center with their concerns about recruitment practices and the continuing war in Iraq.

Organizers say they were prepared to engage in civil disobedience to close the center but it did not come to that and there were no arrests. Organizers are claiming success in being able to close the center for the day and plan to return to this center and others in the Los Angeles area in the near future.

Student march from Roosevelt HS & Hollenbeck Middle School arrive at recruiting center at Plaza Del Sol at 4 PM

Students and teachers from ELAC, Roosevelt HS and Hollenbeck Middle School marched and rallied.

Adults inside at the recruiting center door. They closed and lock the door just before we arrived.

Fernando Suarez Del Solar whose son Jesus was one of the first Marines to die in Iraq in March 2003 at Boyle Heights recruiting center.

Demonstration in front of recruiting center before students arrive 3:30 PM

I am so proud of those young students who participated yesterday. They showed spirit and discipline, and they did not unnecessarily antagonize authorities by walking out during class hours, or by "acting out" during the demonstration. The future is in good hands. If only students from every high school in L.A. would express themselves similarly.

Kudos to the AFSC and the Catholic Worker, for planning and sticking to a successful non-violent event.

The bagpipe music was also appropriate and welcome.