December 25, 2008: Despite the threat of heavy rain, five of us turned out for our annual Xmas Day vigil. We have been vigiling on Xmas, at various locations, since 2004. Last year's holiday vigil was covered here:
http://la.indymedia.org/news/2007/12/212014.php.
This was the second year that the Northeast LA Radical Neighbors (organizers of the Saturday Eagle Rock vigil, from 2 to 4pm—winter hours--at Eagle Rock and Colorado Blvds., and the Highland Park vigil, which is on most Mondays from 5:30 to 7pm. Contact: DrLao@Yahoo. com) collaborated with the Montrose vigil (Friday nights from 5:30 to 7pm at Honolulu and Oceanview).
Some of us were a bit reticent to go out in the rain on a holiday, but activism isn't always about doing what one wants or feels like. Also, speaking for myself, I truly feel the holiday spirit once I'm actually out and demonstrating. To go about business as usual, even on a holiday, doesn't feel right.
Passersby took notice of us. The numerous positive responses came in the form of peace signs, waves, honks, and verbal thank yous.
The local homeless people remained homeless on Xmas. One has been stuck outside during this entire rain cycle. We gave this person some food and other needed items. For some of these homeless people, Xmas didn't appear to be different from any other day.
