The recent Hosay celebrations have come and gone, leaving us to reflect on the event and its significance. This year’s event raised questions about the heavy police presence and their interactions with the procession. While the police didn’t shut down Hosay at 6 pm as in previous years, their actions still raised concerns. Drivers weaving through the procession, lack of respect for the observance, and the overall feeling of unease lingered throughout the day. The streets should have felt sacred during this event, but many participants felt that this was not the case. The relationship between the police and Hosay has been a topic of discussion for years, and the recent events only added more fuel to the fire. Was this merely a show of authority or a lack of understanding of the cultural importance of Hosay? As an observer of Hosay for years, these questions weigh heavily on my mind. The need for road rules, respect, and understanding is apparent in order to prevent clashes in the future.
