Will protests, social movements bring change?

Posted at 7:20 AM on October 17, 2011 by Paul Tosto
Filed under: Politics

(MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)

Peaceful change. Painful change. We're reminded of both starting the week.

In Yemen, the government is firing on protesters. In Minnesota and around the world, the "Occupy" movement seems to be wearing out its welcome with police.

And in Washington, officials dedicate a statue memorializing Martin Luther King, whose commitment to non-violent protest brought real change in this country.

Today, we'll be chasing the news on Occupy Minnesota. But we'll also be looking at what's happening around the world as people protest against their governments.

What does it take for citizens to make real political change in 2011? Could King do it now?

Help us answer those questions today. Jump in with your insights and questions about what your reading. Post something below or contact us directly.