University of Michigan-Ann Arbor students show their support for slain protesters in Libya, Bahrain, and Yemen at the Diag courtyard on campus. Photo courtesy of SAFE

Ann Arbor – In response to what has been called one of the most remarkable regional uprisings in history in the Middle East and North Africa, the Students Allied for Freedom and Equality organization at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor recently held a demonstration on Thurs., Feb. 24 to show their support for the movements for democracy.

The demonstration, titled “Shot Down: Dying for Democracy,” was held by nearly 100 students comprising various organizations on campus at the university’s central Diag courtyard.

Participants laid down on the ground under the banner “What if all peaceful protestors were shot dead?” to personify and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom at demonstrations in countries including Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, Egypt, and Tunisia.

Attendees discussed recent events as the push for freedom has continued overseas while demonstrating in solidarity with the movements. One student remarked, “We are all Libyans, Yemenis, Bahrainis, Egyptians, and Tunisians today bound by the human love and yearning for freedom and dignity.”