LOS ANGELES-  "Fight Back"

That was the chant that began the late afternoon rally in Los Angeles.  Students used bullhorns and drums to set the stage for a downtown march.  Hundreds of teachers, students and union leaders held signs, bemoaning the budget cuts to their schools.   Buses brought educators from all over the city.    Some teachers walked with their children.  Some college students walked, arm and arm, chanting over and over, "We're fired up."  Other protestors called specific attention to tuition hikes at the UC and Cal State systems.  The crowd sang along to music blaring from loud speakers.  But, at times, it was quiet enough to hear a simple guitar string.    

Here's a snapshot inside the rally.

(download mp3)