45 years ago today at Portland State University a police riot broke out during a student anti-war protest.
A photo essay by Tom Geil tells the story.
My Story: Portland State University - May 11, 1970
Wilma Morrison, professor of Journalism at Portland State in the 70’s emphatically taught us not to become emotionally involved in our stories. “These are serious times with serious issues, but you need to remain an observer and record history accurately,” she extolled us.
Blood drenched clothing, severe gashes, screaming, crying – that morning had it all. And how could I not help but get involved in my story. I may have been a reporter/photographer for the Portland State University Vanguard student paper, but these were my classmates, my constituents, and abruptly those who had been strangers were now my friends.
My favorite picture and caption.
"I am a law abiding citizen. Why don't you shoot these commie-loving, long-haired hippy freaks? How can you let them get by with this?"