Stephanie Owen, On the Scene for Miami FTAA Protest

The free trade protesters that descended on Miami last November were all young, pierced and tattooed, right?

A few. But most were much more luscious.

Some carried puppets or giant flowers, some dressed as tomatoes and many chanted slogans against the Free Trade Area of the Americas, or FTAA, and a globalized economy. Now and then a guitar serenaded the eclectic and powerful group.

Some wore a "gapatista" sash over a white T-shirt bearing the word "Crap" in letters like those used by the Gap logo. During the demonstration, organized to highlight what protesters said was the Gap's poor labor and environmental record, many sang songs to the crowd and did what activists try to do -- educate people.

Quite a scene: flowers and tomatoes against a back drop of the police prepared for a chemical attack. The free world can thank its lucky stars; after all, as one high level police official warned, "Every protester here is a potential terrorist." (Quite the recruiting material for Osama.)

While diplomats debated inside, Miami reporters sought out sexy images to tape for nightly news. Black block anarchists, sling shots, and bags full of urine got the most coverage, even though these represented only 50 or so of the 10,000 who marched. As a result maybe twice did I hear the right questions posed to the rest of the protesters: Why the stink over free trade? Who benefits? Who loses? What is your alternative?

There was only one reason I was willing to join the costly, potentially dangerous demonstration against the proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas: my conscience. I must be willing to risk as much for justice as soldiers are willing to risk for war. With this conviction I coordinate a youth activist group at Hopkins High, and the word is spreading: primary consideration with each trade agreement should be human rights and the earth, then economic progress.

With this work, we act in solidarity with those in León. In fact, our very own PMGL secretary, Mercedes, was part of a team that organized a meeting in León attended by Nicaraguans, Hondurans, and representatives from Spanish and Italian NGOs as well. Their intention is to educate Nicaraguans on the potential harms of the FTAA and create a viable alternative. Some later traveled to meetings in Honduras, while others met with members of the Nicaraguan National Assembly.

Upon my departure from León last summer, my friend Yaniree said to me, "Stephanie, your work is only beginning." My friends, the work for all of us is just beginning.

Trade is essential, but make trade fair!