Young Anarchists by Editor

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Mar 22, 1910

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 37, No. 12.

Young Anarchists.

By Editor

The Kansas City Journal, in connection with the great strike in Philadelphia notes the fact that much of the riot, disorder, and violence has been done by boys and young men who were not personally concerned in the struggle; and further says that it is one of the most deplorable phases of strike situations. "The hoodlums and young ruffians always take advantage of the opportunity offered to commit all sorts of deeds of violence and rowdyism. Many boys yet in their teens, and utterly lacking in the sense of responsibility, have helped to stone and burn street-cars, and place obstructions upon the tracks."

It is a sad and sorry situation. Many of the strikers without question are peaceable. Doubtless their grievance has a real foundation. They may not be receiving the wages which they should have from the wealthy company; but it seems as tho in some way they ought to discountenance the anarchy, the hoodlumism, the crime which is committed in their name or in sympathy with them. The Journal truly says: "The young rioters will grow up to be American citizens with a natural disrespect for law and order. They will have had a taste of lawlessness and blood, and they will form an exceedingly dangerous element in our population. The fathers and mothers of these irresponsible boys do not seem to realize what they are bringing their children. The evil effects of this strike will be reflected long after it has been all but forgotten."