Rue-du-Nord, Franco County, Nahrin Union
06:15 EPT
“…and in other news, the new English language High School, Mathers Academy, has opened it’s doors in a move to encourage wider use of the official language in preparation for the move to abolish Recognised Regional Minority Languages from the nation. It is hoped the moves will help increase national cohesion…”
The news from the radio was considered inflammatory to the French speaking minority that made up the population of the county seat of Rue-du-Nord. The removal of the French name of the city was bad enough but the establishment of a purely English speaking school proved to be the last straw. Later that day a large group of angry French speakers appeared in the main municipal square brandishing placards and banners decrying the situation.
“Non à l’anglais! Non à l’anglais! Non à l’anglais!” they chanted as bystanders either looked on or walked past. Officers from the local garrison of the National Nahrin Police Service arrived fairly quickly. The protesters were warned in no uncertain terms that due to the lack of a demonstration permit, they would have to leave or be arrested.
“NON! We are not moving from ze square! MAKE US!” shouted one person. The rest of the crowd jeered in agreement.
“Sir, you know the laws in the Nahrin Union. You must submit a request for a Demo Permit with the route and a draft running order in plac…”
“NON! WHAT YOU ARE DOING IS STIFFLING OUR RIGHT TO PROTEST! VIVE LA NAHRIS LIBRE!”
“VIVE LA NAHRIS LIBRE!”
The ferocity of the crowd took the police by surprise. Eventually they resorted to using tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. Several screams of pain and running battles followed…