Hundreds block San Francisco roads to protest APEC

Hundreds of protesters blocked streets near the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit Wednesday in a bid to disrupt and prevent attendees from entering the conference building.

Driving the news: Groups came together to rally across Market Street, Geary Boulevard and Powell Street throughout the day — many pressed up against police lines and security roadblocks, while others attempted to swarm delegates.

• The demonstrations highlighted a range of demands, including a ceasefire in Gaza, an end to labor violations, accountability for human rights abuses and reparations for climate change.
• Some rallies were organized specifically to coincide with the day of President Biden's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose presence in the city drew groups like Students for a Free Tibet, exiled Chinese spiritual practitioners Falun Gong and the United Vietnamese American Community of Northern California.
• Others challenged the presence of Filipino President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong over their controversial governance.

The big picture: APEC is no stranger to demonstrations.

• Last year, Thai police fired rubber bullets to disperse protests against APEC protests in Bangkok.
• Mayor London Breed said this month that the city supports peaceful protests and is prepared to maintain safety while allowing for freedom of expression.