Singapore. May 13, 1954. Students from Chinese middle schools seek exemption for classmates affected by a new conscription law. This peaceful gathering is met with violence from the anti-riot squad. On June 2, 800 students occupy Chinese High School to continue their protest. For more than 3 weeks, the students conduct their own classes. Every alternate evening, the art and recreation group puts on drama, dance, and music performances. Other groups are set up to ensure the success of communal living.