On the morning of May 21, an estimated 500 residents from across Beijing gathered outside of the Supreme People’s Court to protest against what they believed to be unjust rulings by district courts in the city. The protestors called for better oversight of the lower courts and the protection of citizens’ rights by the judicial system. Most of the protestors have been involved in lawsuits in recent years, and have become frustrated and disillusioned by the appeals process. Though there was a heavy police presence, the protests took place peacefully and without incident.
