tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19941205732452930892024-03-13T11:19:54.348-07:00Occupy PeaceHow to plan a peaceful protest or occupation in the U.S.Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-34682557619989679792020-06-09T00:27:00.001-07:002020-06-11T00:53:36.477-07:00Protest Questions & Answers<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>Protest Questions and Answers</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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The following are some of the many search terms that people have used this week to get to this site. I will take these as questions and try to answer. I am taking them exactly as written, typos and all.<br />
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<b>1. peaceful protests where people got arrested -</b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>Protesting is legal. It is our Constitutional right. Very few protesters are arrested, overall. If a protest is peaceful, arrests are not likely. However, even at a peaceful protest, there can be people doing things that get them arrested. In addition, if a protest runs for too many hours, often police begin causing trouble, randomly attacking and arresting people. If you want to run a peaceful protest, keep it to 2 hours maximum. If you want to keep yourself safe at a longer protest, leave after a reasonable amount of time before people and police get cranky and start doing things they should not.<br />
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<b>2. fbi infiltrate seattle protestors </b><br />
<b>Answer:</b> I don't know anything about this, but it would not surprise me. You might want to google this and see what information is out there.<br />
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<b>3. "facebook" and "doxbin" </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>Facebook is a major social media. Doxbin is a type of site usually used by hackers, stalkers, or people engaged in violent crimes. Some of the people that are involved in Doxbin crime sites have Twitter and/or Facebook accounts. <br />
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<b>4. california unlawful assembly required announcement </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>In California and most other places, if the police decide that a protest is an unlawful assembly, they are supposed to make an announcement over loudspeaker or shouted if there is no loudspeaker. They are supposed to repeat the announcement as many times as it takes and from different locations so that everyone has a chance to hear it. The police might not do all this, though. In the announcement, the police officer will state that the protest or gathering has been declared an unlawful assembly and that people must leave or they will be subject to arrest and to weaponry. The announcement is supposed to tell which direction people are supposed to walk to leave. Many (most?) people at a protest do not know which direction they are facing, and often to do not know the name of nearby streets. So when police announce that people are to "walk West on Smith Street," most people won't know where that is. The order to leave an unlawful assembly is called an Order to Disperse. That means to leave and go home. When an order to disperse has been given, police are supposed to allow protesters to leave and not try to kettle them or capture them. If you do not obey an order to disperse, or if you are caught in a crowd that cannot quickly leave, you may experience tear gas, pepper spray, LRAD (a sonic weapon), rubber bullets, flash bangs, etc, as well as face being arrested or kettled.<br />
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<b>5. giving dispersal orders during a unlawful assembly </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>See the answer to #4 above. It is the same in many states. If an unlawful assembly has been declared, the police are supposed to announce that and give an order to disperse, followed by telling people where they need to walk to leave the area.<br />
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<b>6. what happens if you're arrested at a protest </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>Usually they put zip ties on your hands, usually too tightly, and they make you stand around or sit around waiting to be transported somewhere. Then, usually they put you onto a hot bus and make you sit on it for hours. Then, they usually take you someplace to be processed, maybe a jail, maybe some impromptu place. Then, they hold you for hours or up to a few days and let you go, either based on your identification or based on bail money. Usually while you are being held, you will not have water, food, or a chance to go to the bathroom.<br />
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<b>7. anaheim protest live </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>I don't know anything about this. There are protests all over the place, including Anaheim.<br />
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<b>8. are peaceful protesters getting arrested </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>Yes, that happens sometimes. Most peaceful protesters do not get arrested, but some do.<br />
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<b>9. arrested protester being denied insulin </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>If you are arrested at a protest, you will almost surely not be given any medicines, even if you need them. If you need medicine, let the police know right away and maybe they will let you go home instead of arresting you. Giving you any medicine while in custody will require either that you have it with you and then being allowed to take it, or the police would have to bring you to a hospital for a prescription, and they are extremely unlikely to do that. If you are in medical need, it is probably best to avoid going to any protest that might get out of hand. <br />
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<b>10. can you sue if you are hurt protesting </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>Sometimes protesters who have been injured by police by excessive use of force have sued the police and on rare occasions, they have won. If a protester is hurt by the negligent or criminal acts of another, such as being run over intentionally by a car, they might sue the person that did it. Anyone in such a situation should speak with a Civil Rights lawyer or possibly a personal injury lawyer. They will evaluate your specific case for its facts and apply those to the law and then tell you if they think you have a case or not. Try to keep out of the way of trouble at a protest. In the George Floyd protests, it has been reported that police have shot many people with rubber bullets. Rubber bullets are extremely dangerous and should never be used to disperse a crowd. During these protests, it has been reported that numerous people have lost an eye after police shot them in the eye with a rubber bullet. Rubber bullets should be banned from use in protests.<br />
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<b>11. cost of getting out of jail after protest </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>This can range from simply showing your identification all the way to thousands of dollars. It depends on what basis you were arrested or what you have been charged with. It also depends what "game" the police are playing at the moment. Maybe they're going to hold you on a hot bus for a few hours and let you go. Maybe they are going to take you to jail and make you go before a judge to set bail. It all depends. If people have to pay bail, it will be based sometimes on the set bail amount for that charge. It also depends on the state and even on the county. For example, failure to disperse can bring different bail amounts in different counties in the same state. Usually overall, most protest arrests will be no bail or a few hundred dollars, though some can be significantly higher.<br />
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<b>12. la city rules for protests and marches - </b><br />
<b>Answer: </b>Use the search bar on this site on the right hand side bar near the top.<br />
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-90340132839054076012020-06-07T13:34:00.001-07:002020-06-07T14:11:33.529-07:00Spying on George Floyd Protesters<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Spying on George Floyd Protesters</b></div>
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The following letter is a scoop that was obtained by Jason Leopold and Buzzfeed News. See Buzzfeed News for more context. The letter is from five members of the U.S. Senate asking for informatoin from the Department of Justice, Department of Defense, Department of Interior, and Department of Homeland Security requesting information on what each is doing with regard to George Floyd protesters.<br />
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-994744170286616492020-06-03T12:46:00.000-07:002020-06-03T12:46:03.301-07:00UCLA Used by LAPD to Detain Those Arrested at Protest<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iYmRCB_2oMo/Xtf9k1tsOeI/AAAAAAAABFE/RFzGSuPT3zsFMHUvcOVKWQpp6cyTeKUKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/320px-Royce_Hall_post_rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iYmRCB_2oMo/Xtf9k1tsOeI/AAAAAAAABFE/RFzGSuPT3zsFMHUvcOVKWQpp6cyTeKUKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/320px-Royce_Hall_post_rain.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Royce Hall, UCLA, photo by Alton, </b><br />
<b>creative commons license </b></div>
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<b>UCLA Used by LAPD to Detain Those Arrested at Protest</b></div>
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<b>by Susan Basko, esq</b></div>
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<b>According to the letter below, which states it is from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_California,_Los_Angeles">UCLA</a> faculty members, the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_California,_Los_Angeles">UCLA</a> campus was used the Los Angeles Police Department to detain people who had been arrested at protests in downtown Los Angeles.</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Letter from faculty:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">June 2, 2020</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Dear Chancellor Block and Executive Vice-Chancellor Carter,</span></div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">It has come to our attention that last evening, June 1, 2020, a UCLA facility, the Jackie Robinson Stadium, was used by LAPD to detain protesters and process arrests, including arrests of UCLA students. We have heard from the National Lawyers Guild-Los Angeles, arrested UCLA students, and other arrested protesters on this matter.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Testimony from arrested protesters is chilling. Arrested for violation of curfew in downtown Los Angeles, protesters were crowded into LA County Sheriff’s Department buses and brought to UCLA. As they arrived, they looked out of the small windows on these prison buses only to see Bruins logos and signs greeting them at the Jackie Robinson Stadium. Protesters were held on these buses at UCLA for five to six hours, without access to restrooms, food, water, information, or medical attention. Indeed, there was a medical emergency on one of the buses, one that received a response from the fire department several hours later. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">All protocols of social distancing were violated by the LA County Sheriff’s Department and LAPD with protesters deliberately crowded into buses and officers not following rules and recommendations established by the City, the County, and the CDC, including wearing masks. The cruel irony that this took place at a location used as a COVID-19 testing site is not lost on those arrested or on us. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">When protesters were taken off the buses, they were subject to processing in the parking lot of the stadium and then released, which meant that they were directed to find their way home late at night (between 1:30 am and 3:30 am) from the Jackie Robinson Stadium. Without working cell phones and under conditions of curfew, this was a near impossible task, especially for those unhoused Angelenos who had also been arrested for curfew violation for simply being on the streets of downtown Los Angeles and were now marooned at UCLA.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> In addition, protesters, including UCLA students, were arrested in Westwood, again for violation of curfew. They were brought to Jackie Robinson Stadium on LAPD buses after LAPD tried to commandeer a 720 Metro Bus but failed to maneuver it through the streets. We share these details because if you do not already know them, you must know them now.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We write to express our deep concern about these events and the matter of UCLA collaboration with LAPD and other police forces. In recent days, UCLA leadership has shared statements of solidarity denouncing institutionalized racism and recognizing the importance of protest against such racism.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Last night’s use of Jackie Robinson Stadium stands in sharp hypocrisy to these statements. We have heard from our students and we agree that such solidarity statements must be accompanied not by collaboration with the police but by concrete steps that move us towards the divestment of UCLA from LAPD and other forms of policing, similar to the prompt action taken by the President of the University of Minnesota following the murder of Mr. George Floyd. In the coming months, we intend to work towards this goal in partnership with student and community organizations. We look forward to being in dialogue and alliance with you on this.</span></div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">That said, we also seek a full accounting of the events of last evening. The Jackie Robinson Stadium is a UCLA facility, implicating all of us in the use of that space to detain protestors and process arrests. It is our understanding that UCLA holds the lease to the Jackie Robinson Stadium and its parking lots, which sit on VA grounds. We ask for a detailed, public statement on the chain of events, decisions, and command lines that led to the use of this facility by LAPD and its mobile processing units last evening and a copy of any agreements that may govern LAPD’s use of this UCLA facility. We also ask for an immediate cessation of the use of this facility or any other UCLA facility by LAPD and other police forces.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Last evening, UCLA students were arrested for engaging in the constitutionally protected right to peacefully protest against racial injustice, which is pervasive in American policing. They were detained and processed at a stadium on their own campus named after Jackie Robinson, an icon of the long and unfinished struggle for Black freedom. Today many of them are trying to complete final examinations and final assignments. This is not the UCLA education and experience that they deserve.</span></div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">But this is not just about our students. As UCLA faculty, we refuse to allow our university to serve as a police outpost at this moment of national uprising and at any other time. As a public university, we serve the public and our students, and this in turn requires dismantling the mechanisms of punishment that have historically caused undeniable harm to communities in Los Angeles.</span></div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">A few days ago, we were glad to read your statement which noted: "Still, we recognize that UCLA also can and must do better. As campus leaders, we recommit ourselves to ensuring that our policies and actions value the lives, safety and dignity of every Bruin." This is our chance to do better.</span></div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We look forward to receiving a full and detailed accounting of last evening’s incident and to working with you and the rest of the UCLA leadership on divestment from collaborations with LAPD and other police forces.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">[signed by dozens of UCLA faculty and administrators]</span></div>
Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-61686853709849923512020-05-31T13:44:00.000-07:002020-05-31T13:44:34.162-07:00Protesting - What is Legal and What is Not?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWgmrTMSikw/TryhvZ3HhkI/AAAAAAAAAF4/eB1LECz8W7w-iBrXcbG1BIAM_QmJ0191QCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/SSPX0082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWgmrTMSikw/TryhvZ3HhkI/AAAAAAAAAF4/eB1LECz8W7w-iBrXcbG1BIAM_QmJ0191QCPcBGAYYCw/s320/SSPX0082.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Protesting - What is Legal and What is Not?</b></div>
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<b>by Susan Basko, esq.</b></div>
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<b>May 31, 2020. </b>Many US cities experienced riots last night. There seems to be a lot of confusion on what is legal and what is not.</div>
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<b>PROTESTING IS LEGAL! Protesting on the streets involves these things:</b></div>
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Walking</div>
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Marching </div>
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Chanting</div>
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Carrying Signs</div>
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Being present</div>
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<b>WHAT IS NOT LEGAL:</b></div>
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Breaking glass</div>
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Looting (stealing from a store or house or business)</div>
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Damaging property</div>
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Spray painting on things you don't own</div>
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Starting fires</div>
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Hurting any person by pushing, hitting, kicking</div>
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Blockading people or vehicles so they cannot keep moving</div>
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Throwing fireworks at anyone</div>
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Shooting a gun around people</div>
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Anything else that damages or endangers people or property</div>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-83171940573800786382020-05-31T01:24:00.000-07:002020-06-03T21:29:14.320-07:00Protest or Riot? Sliding Scale<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2vNxBtWdre0/XtNlruwGY0I/AAAAAAAABEs/EylyWeD8xJIeZWlfVYEVLW7u5XN0vOcoACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="902" height="179" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2vNxBtWdre0/XtNlruwGY0I/AAAAAAAABEs/EylyWeD8xJIeZWlfVYEVLW7u5XN0vOcoACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cheesecake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">"Protests Turn Destructive": Woman carries whole cheesecake from <br />
looted Cheesecake Factory during protest.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Protest or Riot? Sliding Scale</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Protest - Peaceful Assembly</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Unlawful Assembly - (as determined by police on the scene)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Riot - when things really get cooking</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Uprising - sustained over time</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Revolt - with a definite purpose, songs written for it</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Revolution - everyone gets new hats!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Where on this scale does a woman taking a whole cheesecake from a looted Cheesecake Factory restaurant fit? That's probably <i>Uprising</i>. It looks like she also took a little container of milk, so it might be a <i>Revolt</i>. If she writes a protest song about it, it is for sure a Revolution. If she took a whole Chocolate Turtle Cheesecake, she is the Leader of the Revolution.</span></div>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-10706226882394657652020-05-30T11:36:00.002-07:002020-05-30T21:10:09.255-07:00George Floyd Protests<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJsd_T_ZSpw/XtKsTKEH81I/AAAAAAAABEU/2Zd4D0GHzrsHP2UaWYTw97xNZ3_Ode1LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/daryle%2Blamont.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="726" height="235" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJsd_T_ZSpw/XtKsTKEH81I/AAAAAAAABEU/2Zd4D0GHzrsHP2UaWYTw97xNZ3_Ode1LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/daryle%2Blamont.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>George Floyd Protests</b></div>
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Minnesota Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington says they've begun contact tracing arrestees.
"Who are they associated with? What platforms are they advocating for? ... Is this organized crime? ... We are in the process right now of building that information network." <a href="https://t.co/U0KNIVHnf6">pic.twitter.com/U0KNIVHnf6</a></div>
— NBC News (@NBCNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCNews/status/1266758240018276352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
May 30, 2020. George Floyd was a Black man in Minneapolis, Minnesota, who was murdered by a police officer out on the street in daylight while people were watching. A bystander made phone video of the murder. The murder was senseless and shocking and has caused, rightfully, protest throughout the nation. Mayors and Governors and leaders of all types throughout the nation have stated that the killing was wrong and that they insist justice be done. Protests are being held in many cities as a way of showing that police violence against Black people will not be tolerated.<br />
<br />
HOWEVER... it appears that there are individuals or organizations stoking violence and property destruction at these protests, to use the protests for their own ends and means.
If you are taking part in protests against the death of George Floyd or against police violence or racism in general, please be aware that those urging on violence and/or property destruction may be present as provocateurs for their own purposes.<br />
<br />
For example, it has been stated that there may be white supremacist groups stoking violence or looting at these protests to cause chaos and disruption. There may be other groups involved urging on violence and destruction as a catalyst for a race war. (Google "Boogaloo" movement, which is a loosely-knit group of mostly white racist people who hope to stoke a race war.) <br />
<br />
As shown in the video linked to the tweet above, the Minnesota Public Safety Commission is doing contact tracing of those arrested to see who is there and why.<br />
<br />
IF YOU ARE OUT PROTESTING, PLEASE KEEP IT LEGAL AND SAFE. Be smart. Be wise.<br />
<br />
UPDATE EVENING MAY 30 2020: WIDESPREAD RIOTING: Rioting has occurred today in many cities throughout the U.S. There have been many incidents of breaking windows, looting, vehicles being spray-painted, rocked, and/or set on fire, people injuring other people. Curfews have been imposed in many cities. <br />
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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<a href="https://t.co/ev4ce3nh0B">pic.twitter.com/ev4ce3nh0B</a></div>
— Daryle Lamont Jenkins (@DLamontJenkins) <a href="https://twitter.com/DLamontJenkins/status/1265673057504579586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-35437602420837991652019-07-11T10:31:00.003-07:002019-07-11T10:59:43.573-07:00You have rights if ICE is at your door<div style="text-align: center;">
You have rights if ICE is at your door</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<center>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pW4uixi4b_E" width="560"></iframe></center>
<br />
for more information, you can visit:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.aclu.org/issues/immigrants-rights/ice-and-border-patrol-abuses/we-have-rights">https://www.aclu.org/issues/immigrants-rights/ice-and-border-patrol-abuses/we-have-rights </a>Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-79090883942981351302019-06-29T22:51:00.000-07:002019-06-29T22:51:07.342-07:00Close the Camps protests July 2 2019<div class="mt-5" id="content-heading" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 3rem !important; padding: 0px;">
<h1 class="text-align-center" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: "Roboto Condensed", sans-serif; font-size: 3rem; font-weight: bolder; line-height: 1.2em; margin: 0px 0px 0.3em; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="pl-2 pr-2 bg-azure" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #00abff; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0.5rem !important; padding-right: 0.5rem !important; padding-top: 0px;">Host or Attend #CloseTheCamps Protest Tuesday, July 2</span></h1>
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Children denied soap and toothbrushes, crowded into unsafe conditions. Separated from their families, subject to cruel treatment that leads to lasting traumas. And some dying in custody—or dying with parents as they cross the Rio Grande.</div>
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We've seen the images and heard the stories coming out of child detention centers. <strong style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Horrifically, these conditions aren't an accident. They are the byproduct of an intentional strategy by the Trump administration to terrorize immigrant communities and criminalize immigration</strong>—from imprisoning children in inhumane conditions to threatening widespread raids to break up families to covering up reports of immigrants dying in U.S. custody and abuses by ICE and CBP agents.<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><strong style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">It’s going to take all of us to close the camps. <br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />This Tuesday, July 2, while members of Congress are home for the Fourth of July holiday, w</strong><strong style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">e will gather at 12 p.m. noon local time at their local offices in protest. Our demands:</strong></div>
<ol style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0px 0.625em; padding: 0px;">
<li style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #00ccff; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Close the Camps</span></li>
<li style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #00ccff; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Not One Dollar for Family Detention and Deportation</span></li>
<li style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #00ccff; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Bear Witness and Reunite Families</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<strong style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Will you join a local Close the Camps protest near you this Tuesday, July 2? Find an event or start your own, and bring everyone you know. Can't attend or host an event? Text CAMPS to 668366 to continue taking action to #CloseTheCamps.</span></strong></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">A core principle shared by supporting organizations is a commitment to nonviolent, peaceful actions. All actions that are sponsored or organized on this page are intended to be nonviolent and peaceful. We expect all participants to act lawfully at all times and to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.</em></span> </span></div>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-73426636471346231642019-02-17T15:37:00.001-08:002019-02-17T15:37:15.482-08:00Presidents Day 2019 Protests against Fake Emergency<br />
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<span class="pl-2 pr-2 bg-azure" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #00abff; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0.5rem !important; padding-right: 0.5rem !important; padding-top: 0px;">Attend a Presidents Day Protest</span></h1>
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<input class="p-3 pr-5" name="place" placeholder="Zip Code" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: 1rem; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 1rem 3rem 1rem 1rem !important; width: 352px;" type="text" value="" /><button style="-webkit-appearance: none; -webkit-box-align: center; -webkit-box-pack: center; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; align-items: center; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px center; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-color: initial; border-radius: 0px; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; display: inline-table; font-family: "Roboto Condensed", sans-serif; font-weight: bolder; justify-content: center; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: absolute; right: 10px; text-transform: uppercase; top: 10px; transition: all 0.3s ease 0s;" type="submit"><svg height="24" viewbox="0 0 24 24" width="24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M23.809 21.646l-6.205-6.205c1.167-1.605 1.857-3.579 1.857-5.711 0-5.365-4.365-9.73-9.731-9.73-5.365 0-9.73 4.365-9.73 9.73 0 5.366 4.365 9.73 9.73 9.73 2.034 0 3.923-.627 5.487-1.698l6.238 6.238 2.354-2.354zm-20.955-11.916c0-3.792 3.085-6.877 6.877-6.877s6.877 3.085 6.877 6.877-3.085 6.877-6.877 6.877c-3.793 0-6.877-3.085-6.877-6.877z"></path></svg></button></div>
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- OR -</div>
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<input class="p-3 pr-5" name="place" placeholder="Miami, FL" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: 1rem; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 1rem 3rem 1rem 1rem !important; width: 352px;" type="text" value="" /><button style="-webkit-appearance: none; -webkit-box-align: center; -webkit-box-pack: center; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; align-items: center; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px center; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-color: initial; border-radius: 0px; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; display: inline-table; font-family: "Roboto Condensed", sans-serif; font-weight: bolder; justify-content: center; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: absolute; right: 10px; text-transform: uppercase; top: 10px; transition: all 0.3s ease 0s;" type="submit"><svg height="24" viewbox="0 0 24 24" width="24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M23.809 21.646l-6.205-6.205c1.167-1.605 1.857-3.579 1.857-5.711 0-5.365-4.365-9.73-9.731-9.73-5.365 0-9.73 4.365-9.73 9.73 0 5.366 4.365 9.73 9.73 9.73 2.034 0 3.923-.627 5.487-1.698l6.238 6.238 2.354-2.354zm-20.955-11.916c0-3.792 3.085-6.877 6.877-6.877s6.877 3.085 6.877 6.877-3.085 6.877-6.877 6.877c-3.793 0-6.877-3.085-6.877-6.877z"></path></svg></button></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Donald Trump has declared a #<wbr style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></wbr>FakeNationalEmergency—an illegal power grab from an unhinged man to push his racist, dangerous policies. </strong></div>
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We're mobilizing rapid-response events on Presidents Day—Monday, 2/18—against Trump's fake crisis and racist deportation force and to stand with immigrant, Muslim, and Black and brown communities to stop Trump's dangerous and illegal power grab.</div>
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<strong style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Events will be at noon local time, or a time selected by hosts.</strong></div>
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Join a #PresidentsDay protest to fight Trump’s fake crisis and racist deportation force. Use the search tools to find an event near you and RSVP.</div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: 8pt; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">If you choose to attend an event, you agree to engage in nonviolent, peaceful action, to act lawfully, and to strive to de-escalate any potential confrontations with those who may disagree with our values.</em></span></div>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-90587395126772430032018-06-29T09:42:00.002-07:002018-06-30T12:22:10.832-07:00Families Belong Together Protest Rallies Nationwide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Families Belong Together Protest Rallies Nationwide</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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On Saturday June 30, 2018, there will be Families Belong Together protest rallies nationwide. These are protests against immigrant children being separated from their parents at the southern U.S. border.<br />
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<b>You can find a protest near you using the search feature on this site:</b></div>
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<a href="https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/search/">https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/search/</a></div>
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If you register to attend, you will receive updates. Many of the rallies will include music and speakers.<br />
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The rallies are planned to be legal, safe, and friendly for families, elderly, and disabled. If you attend, please bring water, sunscreen, and a sign, if you make one. If you are making signs, plan to hand-hold them and do not put them on sticks, which will not likely be allowed into any protest area. Where sticks are allowed, if you keep your stick to the length and width and thickness of a wooden yardstick, it should be fine. In fact, people do use wooden yardsticks for their signs.<br />
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Have a great day helping to support and protect families who come to the U.S. seeking safety.<br />
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-46575987752224398702018-05-03T21:12:00.002-07:002019-06-30T11:43:14.209-07:00Masks and Bandannas at Protests<center>
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<b>Masks and Bandannas at Protests</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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On Saturday, April 21, 2018, Nazis held a rally in Newnan, Georgia, USA. Counterprotesters showed up, outnumbering the Nazis. There was a heavy presence of militarized police. The video above is raw footage by <a href="https://www.patreon.com/FordFischer"><b>Ford Fisher</b></a>. <br />
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Police, aiming what appeared to be live bullet rifles (as opposed to less than lethal weapons) at the protesters at very close range, demanded they remove their masks or bandannas, or be arrested. Protesters were shoved to the ground and brutally arrested. This sort of brutality and pointing of guns seems so out of place for such a trivial offense as wearing a mask or bandanna.<br />
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LET'S LOOK AT THE LAWS REGARDING MASKS AND BANDANnAS. Most of these laws are found in State laws, though some might be found in municipal laws. The law might be an outright prohibition on wearing a mask, disguise, facial covering, etc., in public. Or a law might prohibit two more more people, gathered, from wearing masks. Or it might be an enhancement to a sentence if a crime is committed while wearing a mask.<br />
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<b>BELOW, WE WILL LOOK SPECIFICALLY AT THE STATE MASK LAWS for Georgia, Illinois, California, and New York. </b><br />
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In some states, wearing a mask in public is in and of itself a crime. In other states, wearing a mask is a crime if another crime is being committed and if the purpose of wearing the mask is to avoid being recognized.<br />
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While every state law is different, any mask law is likely to be found in the body of law that will be called the <i>Criminal Statutes</i> or the <i>Criminal Code</i> or the <i>Penal Code</i>. Then, inside that code, it will usually be in a section called <i>Public Order </i>or <i>Public Safety</i>. In those sections, the mask law will usually gets its own subsection. The law might refer to such words as: <i>mask</i>, <i>hood</i>, <i>disguise</i>, <i>conceal</i>, and hilariously in the California law -- "<i>false whiskers</i>."<br />
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IF YOU plan to wear any sort of mask, bandanna, etc., to a protest, check the criminal law of that state. It could be argued that a bandanna is not a "disguise," but police seem to think it is and they are the ones with the guns and zipties. Interestingly enough, at the Newnan Nazi rally, the police were not concerned that the Nazis were wearing big sunglasses. These two items seem to be equally taking up space on a person's face.<br />
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If you have already been arrested and charged under one of these anti-mask laws, be sure to look up the law and read the wording carefully so you know how to argue against the charge. Also, if you are taken into court, be sure to ask for a public defender lawyer if you cannot afford a private lawyer. If you work part time or don't make much money, you most likely qualify for a public defender lawyer, so when you first go before a judge, say, "I want a public defender lawyer."<br />
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The <a href="https://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/2010/title-16/chapter-11/article-2/16-11-38/">Georgia Law makes the wearing of a mask a Misdemeanor.</a> A misdemeanor is a crime more minor than a felony, so this makes it more outrageous that these police aimed rifles mere inches from these people. It also seems outrageous that peaceful protesters were shoved onto the ground and manhandled. Being treated this way should not be the price one pays for a lawful activity of freedoms of assembly and speech. I assume lawsuits might be forthcoming against those police for excessive use of force against those injured by being tossed face first onto the ground.<br />
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<b>What does the Georgia law prohibit? </b> "Wearing a mask, hood, or device which conceals identity of wearer" on the public way or on private property without permission. The law does not apply if a person is wearing a holiday costume on the holiday. That would mean costumes for Halloween is okay. Another is exception is if the face covering is for occupational or sports safety. Another exception is theatrical productions and Mardi Gras and masquerade balls. Another exception is wearing a gas mask in a drill or emergency.<br />
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<b style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">2010 Georgia Code</b><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">TITLE 16 - CRIMES AND OFFENSES</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">CHAPTER 11 - OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC ORDER AND SAFETY</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">ARTICLE 2 - OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC ORDER</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">§ 16-11-38 - Wearing mask, hood, or device which conceals identity of wearer</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">O.C.G.A. 16-11-38 (2010)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">16-11-38. Wearing mask, hood, or device which conceals identity of wearer </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(a) A person is guilty of a misdemeanor when he wears a mask, hood, or device by which any portion of the face is so hidden, concealed, or covered as to conceal the identity of the wearer and is upon any public way or public property or upon the private property of another without the written permission of the owner or occupier of the property to do so.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(b) This Code section shall not apply to:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(1) A person wearing a traditional holiday costume on the occasion of the holiday;</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(2) A person lawfully engaged in trade and employment or in a sporting activity where a mask is worn for the purpose of ensuring the physical safety of the wearer, or because of the nature of the occupation, trade, or profession, or sporting activity;</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(3) A person using a mask in a theatrical production including use in Mardi gras celebrations and masquerade balls; or</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(4) A person wearing a gas mask prescribed in emergency management drills and exercises or emergencies.</span><br />
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<b>LET'S LOOK AT SOME OTHER STATES.</b><br />
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<b>ILLINOIS: </b>Wearing a "hood" or "robe" while committing assault makes it aggravated assault, which is a much more serious crime.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><b><code style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: x-small;">(720 ILCS 5/12-2)</span></code><span style="font-family: "arial"; text-align: justify;"> </span><code style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: x-small;">(from Ch. 38, par. 12-2)</span></code><code style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: x-small;"> </span></code><code style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: x-small;"></span></code><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: justify;" /><code style="text-align: justify;"> </code><code style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: x-small;">Sec. 12-2. </span></code><code style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: x-small;">Aggravated assault. </span></code></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(c) Offense based on use of firearm, device, or motor vehicle. A person commits aggravated assault when, in committing an assault, he or she does any of the following:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(4) </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">Wears a hood, robe, or mask to conceal his or her identity.</span><br />
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
<b> CALIFORNIA: </b>It is illegal to wear a mask or disguise to evade discovery in the commission of a public offense or to escape. Thus, in California, wearing a mask is not itself a crime, except when wearing it while committing another crime for the intent of not being recognized.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><b>Penal Code.</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><b>PART 1. OF CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS [25 - 680] ( Part 1 enacted 1872. ) </b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">TITLE 7. OF CRIMES AGAINST PUBLIC JUSTICE [92 - 186.34] ( Title 7 enacted 1872. ) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">CHAPTER 8. Conspiracy [182 - [185.]] ( Chapter 8 enacted 1872. )</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">[185.] </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Section One Hundred and Eighty-five. It shall be unlawful for any person to wear any mask, false whiskers, or any personal disguise (whether complete or partial) for the purpose of:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">One—Evading or escaping discovery, recognition, or identification in the commission of any public offense.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Two—Concealment, flight, or escape, when charged with, arrested for, or convicted of, any public offense. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.</span><br />
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<b>NEW YORK: </b>The State of New York considers it the crime of "loitering" when two or more people in a disguise congregate in a public place, unless it is a masquerade party or other such entertainment.<br />
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<b style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">New York Consolidated Laws, Penal Law § 240.35 Loitering</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">A person is guilty of loitering when he:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">4. Being masked or in any manner disguised by unusual or unnatural attire or facial alteration, loiters, remains or congregates in a public place with other persons so masked or disguised, or knowingly permits or aids persons so masked or disguised to congregate in a public place; except that such conduct is not unlawful when it occurs in connection with a masquerade party or like entertainment if, when such entertainment is held in a city which has promulgated regulations in connection with such affairs, permission is first obtained from the police or other appropriate authorities; </span><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-mask_laws"><b>WIKIPEDIA </b>has a nice entry on anti-mask laws</a>. This is an interesting look at the history of anti-mask laws worldwide.</span><br />
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-36579936795080828192018-04-22T09:48:00.000-07:002018-04-22T11:08:09.661-07:00High School Protest Rights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oyv8IrhvSBM/TuMRzz4JbkI/AAAAAAAAAJs/hSGsWNRPXiMAe4ghCb-SqqQM5XNGCEsewCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/Graffiti0200_S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="304" data-original-width="800" height="151" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oyv8IrhvSBM/TuMRzz4JbkI/AAAAAAAAAJs/hSGsWNRPXiMAe4ghCb-SqqQM5XNGCEsewCPcBGAYYCw/s400/Graffiti0200_S.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>High School Protest Rights (and some other topics)</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, Esq.</div>
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High School students in the U.S. have the right to protest, just like adults do, but not during school time and not on school grounds. During school time and on school grounds, high school students are required to follow the school and district rules. After school and off school grounds, you are free to do whatever is legal, just like anyone else. You can run a protest or attend a protest after school or on the weekend, just like anyone else.</div>
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<b>Public vs Private Schools.</b> These laws apply to students at public schools. Students at private schools or religious schools may be agreeing to a set of rules or a Code of Conduct that directs what a student may do, even in their free time or off campus. What is a "private school"? That is a school that is run by a private foundation, by a church or religion, or by a private company. "Charter schools" are privately run, but are paid for by public school money, so this is a grey area. In general, a charter school can reject a student who breaks their rules. </div>
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<b>Religious high schools, colleges, and universities </b>very often prohibit students from supporting or promoting beliefs that run contrary to the religion. Students agree to adhere to the rules in order to be allowed to attend the school. Topics such as abortion, sexual orientation, marriage rights, promotion of legalization of marijuana or drugs -- may be off-limits for students attending some religious schools. Some religious schools go much further than this in their restriction of students' personal activities. If you are a high school student, your parents are legally allowed/ required to decide what school you attend. When you are 18 and over and attending college, you should find out the school's beliefs and policies and restrictions before choosing the school. If your beliefs differ from those of the school and if you are going to have to refrain from voicing your beliefs, the school may not be a good fit for you. If you attend a private or religious high school or college, you are agreeing to abide by whatever rules or restrictions the school has, and you can be punished or expelled from the school for not following their rules and you generally will have no legal recourse, unless the school itself is doing something illegal, such as physical or sexual abuse. If that is the case, you have to make a police report.<br />
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<b>Law vs Private or Religious School Rules.</b> Let's be careful to make the distinction between what is legal or illegal versus what is against the rules of a school. If a student attends a private or religious school that prohibits a student from participating in a protest that is legal, then the student may be in violation of the school rules, but is not breaking any law. The student might be punished or expelled by the private or religious school, but will not be in any criminal trouble with the law. For example, if you attend a religious college that says you cannot support the right to abortion, and if you do support the right to abortion, then you are violating the rules of the religious college you have chosen to attend, but you are not violating any law. You can be punished or expelled by your college, but you will not be breaking any law. </div>
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<b>PUBLIC SCHOOLS:</b></div>
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<b>How do you know what your school rules are? </b>You can look on your school's website and on the school district website to find their rules. It will be called a "Code of Conduct," a "Student Handbook," a "Discipline Policy," "School Rules," or some such thing. If this is not online on your school's website, you may have to ask in person for a paper version of it.</div>
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Let's look at this in detail.</div>
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<b>Punishment: </b>The general legal rule is that a public school cannot punish a student more harshly for an act that is done as a protest than it would for the same act done for another reason. For example, if an unexcused absence gets a specific punishment, then an unexcused absence for a protest should get the same punishment. </div>
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<b>What is "school time"? </b> School time is when you are on the school grounds, in school, at a school-sponsored activity or sport, on a school trip, bus rides, hotel stays or home stays while on a school trip, etc. Also included in school time would be any school camp, summer program, trip abroad, semester abroad, exchange program, etc. Also included are school dances, proms, graduations and other ceremonies, musical, dance, and theater rehearsals and performances, art shows, school fundraisers, etc. Basically, any activity connected to school, whether you are on or off the campus, is considered school time where the students are subject to school rules.</div>
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<b>What are "school grounds"?</b> That is in the school buildings, on the surrounding grounds, on any other associated buildings or grounds. This usually includes parking lots, walkways, sports fields, etc. The grey area is the public sidewalk that surrounds the edge of the school, as well as bus stops or bus loading areas that may be on that public walk. If you plan to use that public walk to pass out flyers, or hold a walk-out, march, or protest, try to find out if the school claims it as part of their grounds. </div>
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<b>School Cops or School Resource Officers: </b> These are usually sworn police officers whose duty is to be within a school. They have police power and are allowed to tell students to do something or stop doing something, within the limits of the law. They also have arrest power. If there is any abuse of the power or physical or verbal abuse, the students and / or parents should report it to the school, the district, and to the police.</div>
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<b>Putting up Posters:</b> Most schools require a student to submit a poster for approval before it can be hung on a bulletin board. Approval is usually based on if the poster is for a school-sponsored event and if the poster is in good taste. Don't be surprised if your poster for a protest is rejected or removed off a bulletin board. Some schools, particularly colleges but also some more liberal high schools, will have the official bulletin boards and in addition, will also have a bulletin board where <i>almost anything</i> can be posted. You may want to push for your school to have such a bulletin board. It is always illegal to put up a poster that advocates for anything illegal, and putting up a poster that includes hate speech or that advocates violence will be against school rules and will usually be illegal, too.</div>
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<b>Passing Out Flyers:</b> High school students supposedly have a First Amendment right to pass out flyers. However, many high schools have rules against even bringing flyers to school, let alone passing them out. High schools might also have rules against standing in a hall or at an entry way passing out flyers. This used to be a huge deal before the days of the internet. Now, it may be just as effective to announce your protest using social media. If you want to pass out flyers, you are best off to do this on the public sidewalk that is adjacent to the street. That sidewalk is least likely to be considered school property and least likely to be considered subject to school rules. No matter where you are passing out flyers, it is illegal to pass out flyers that advocate anything illegal. </div>
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<b>"Speech" in Clothing:</b> Most public high schools do not have a school uniform, but do have a dress code. Some dress codes may prohibit wearing any clothing that has words or a message on it. If wearing clothing with a message on it is allowed, then wearing a political message is allowed, if it meets other requirements. </div>
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The following are the "Do Not" rules from the Portland, Oregon Public Schools Dress Code. These are typical of a non-restrictive public school district's dress code, with the exception that most school districts expressly prohibit a student from wearing any gang identifiers of any kind, including gang insignia, colors, styles, or pictures associated with a gang. Portland is sliding down the slippery slope by leaving it open as a possibility for a student to wear gang identifiers. What criteria are used to determine if a student wearing gang identifiers endangers the safety of other students or staff? And doesn't marking oneself as a gang member always endanger the safety of the person wearing the gang identifier? The school dress code rules in Portland, Oregon, include these "do nots":</div>
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<strong>Non-Allowable Dress & Grooming</strong></div>
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<li>Clothing may not depict, advertise or advocate the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other controlled substances.</li>
<li>Clothing may not depict pornography, nudity or sexual acts.</li>
<li>Clothing may not use or depict hate speech targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation or any other protected groups.</li>
<li>Clothing, including gang identifiers, must not threaten the health or safety of any other student or staff.</li>
<li>If the student’s attire or grooming threatens the health or safety of any other person, then discipline for dress or grooming violations should be consistent with discipline policies for similar violations.</li>
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<b>Walk-Outs:</b> School walk-outs are generally breaking school rules and are considered an unexcused absence. Some school walk-outs are tolerated by some school administrations. It depends on the walk-out and on the administration. See the section above about "Punishment," and read <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/02/why-school-walkouts-are-elitist.html">this post about school walk-outs being elitist</a>. At one recent national school walk-out against school shootings, many schools allowed students to run a rally or ceremony on school grounds. This was wise, since it kept students safe and on the school grounds, and also limited the time they were out of class to about one class period. If students want to walk out and if the school is too strict, this can cause the students to have to walk away off the school grounds, which can possibly endanger them. If you are a high school student planning a school walk-out at your school, you may wish to enlist the support of parents or teachers who might be able to help get the walk-out sanctioned. If you are a high school student and if you participate in a walk-out that is not sanctioned by the school, then you will be subject to punishment, but the punishment is not supposed to be any more than if you left school for any other reason. That will be determined by a number of factors, including the discipline policy at your school, how your school wishes to interpret that policy, and how it wants to interpret your actions. </div>
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<b>Protest Planning: </b>Yes, a high school student can plan a protest! A high school student can participate in a protest! Your safest bet is to plan a protest for after school time or on a weekend, and off school grounds. Here is a <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/10/quick-protest-planning-10-easy-steps.html">guide to quick protest planning</a>.</div>
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<b>Protest Writing and Posting Online: </b> High school students may legally write their political opinions and post them online. However, a high school student can get in trouble at school or with the police for posting hate speech, sexual harassment, personal harassment, or by posting about violence or violent plans. A student will also get in trouble at school and with the police for posting pictures or videos that include hate speech or hate ideas, sexual harassment, personal harassment, violence, violent plans, or that show the student or others with guns, other weapons, drugs, or in sexual situations. Hate speech is speech that targets others based on race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or disability. Speech that encourages others to commit suicide or harm themselves will also land a student in school and legal trouble. Videos or photos or recordings that invade the privacy of others will also land a student in trouble -- even if the student thinks it is a prank. <br />
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<b>Cell Phone Videos: </b> In recent years, cell phone videos have been used powerfully to show abuse being committed by police, staff, teachers, or students in a school. It is generally legal to video the police at their jobs, and generally legal to video in a public location, however, a school might have rules against making cell phone videos in school. Therefore, if you are making a cell phone video at school, you should do so very discreetly so you are not seen doing this and only make a video if you feel you are morally obliged to do so because you are witnessing abuse by a person in power. You may have to later defend your actions, but we assume you are making the video because you feel a moral imperative to do so-- for example, you feel you are witnessing intolerable abuse and want to make a record of it so the person is held accountable. If you find yourself in this situation, it is really best to get advice and help from a lawyer or legal organization.<br />
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If you make a video of such people, you may be invading privacy if you post the video online. Youtube has a "face blurring" tool. You can read <a href="https://youtube-creators.googleblog.com/2016/02/blur-moving-objects-in-your-video-with.html">here about the Face Blurring Tool. </a> Using a face blurring tool does not guarantee you will not be accused of invading someone's privacy, but it is helpful.<br />
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If you make a video that depicts sexual activity or nudity of someone, you should not post that online, because you may be distributing child pornography or pornography or obscenity. You need to consult with a lawyer, because you may have created child pornography by making the video. You may have wanted to "bear witness" to abuse you saw others committing, but you are likely to be perceived as a participant since you were there with a video camera. Do not post such a video and do not pass it around. Seek legal advice immediately. If you need free legal help, there may be a legal clinic in your community or at a local university or law school.<br />
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In most instances if you are present when a fellow student is engaged in sexual abuse of another student, it would be better if you were to either intervene to stop the sexual abuse you are witnessing, or to seek a private location and call police. You might be surprised at how powerful it can be for one person to say, "Hey, stop doing this." The best course of action would be to walk out and call police. The worst course of action would be to participate or to stand around gawking or laughing.<br />
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IF YOU HAVE MADE A VIDEO that depicts abuse by a school police officer, staff, or teacher, this can be used as a powerful form of protest that can lead to significant changes at your school. However, be cautious and aware that your path may not be easy and you will need all the legal support you can get. </div>
Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-84616834229249148922018-04-16T14:36:00.000-07:002018-05-03T21:15:05.224-07:00Counter-Protesters or Counter-Demonstrators<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Counter-Protesters or Counter-Demonstrators</b>
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by Susan Basko, esq.<br />
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see also: <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/05/masks-and-bandannas-at-protests.html">Masks and Bandannas at Protests</a></div>
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Counter-Protesters, also called Counter-Demonstrators, are people who show up at a protest or demonstration to voice an opinion contrary to the main protest. The overall rules are that the counter demonstrations are allowed, if they can be accommodated so they do not interfere with the original protest and so both groups are kept safe and separated. How this plays out is largely dependent on what local police choose to do.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">(<b>April 21, 2018:</b> Nazis marched in the small town of Newnan, Georgia. Counter-protesters showed up and were peaceful, but strong. (See the videos below) Militarized police pointed live guns at the protesters and tackled some of them to the ground, supposedly because the counter-protesters were wearing bandannas. In this instance, the response to peaceful counter-protesters was to meet them with excessive violence by militarized police. This, of course, violates the international laws and guidelines you can read below. There would be no reason to point guns at the protesters or to throw any of them onto the ground.)</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">The spectre of counter-demonstrators showing up has become much more intense in the past couple of years. In states that allow open carrying of guns, there have been demonstrations that are for gun control, at which gun enthusiasts show up openly carry their guns. This can be terrifying for protesters, especially in the wake of mass shootings.</span></div>
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One main point is that no type of violence is ever legal at any protest, on any side. There really is no good reason for protesters, on any side, to show up with flag poles, sticks, cans of anything ignitable, or any other thing that can be used as a weapon. States might want to step up their games and outlaw open carry at any street gathering. A few people carrying guns on the street can chill the right to free speech and freedom of assembly for the mass of people who feel unsafe in that situation. </div>
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Another thing done, often by a lone counter-protester, is to show up with a megaphone and barrage the protesters with the shouted ideas of the counter-protesters. Most towns and cities have noise ordinances, and in many cases, the use of a megaphone without a permit is illegal. If this is happening at your protest, speak with local police and ask them to handle it. At the recent March for Our Lives marches against school shootings, in one city, such a counterprotester shouting into a megaphone was seen surrounded by a circle of armed police. They let him shout his pro-gun diatribe at the marchers, but made sure he and the marchers were kept separated from one another. Sometimes people see police "protecting" a counterprotester in this way -- and that is what the international rules say is supposed to happen. If possible, both sides are allowed to protest, and both sides are to be kept safe and separate from harming one another. </div>
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Let's look at excepts from international guidelines: <a href="https://www.osce.org/odihr/226981">https://www.osce.org/odihr/226981 </a></div>
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"<b>Counterdemonstration</b>:<br />
An assembly that is convened to express<br />
disagreement with the views expressed<br />
at another assembly, and takes place at, or<br />
almost at, the same time and place as the<br />
primary assembly (page 120, Glossary of Terms)<br />
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"<b>The role of police in facilitating assemblies is paramount.</b> Being the most visible<br />
manifestation of government authority, the police demonstrate a state’s<br />
commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental human<br />
rights and freedoms. The police must facilitate all peaceful assemblies,<br />
including spontaneous and simultaneous assemblies and <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-demonstrations</span>,<br />
and protect participants in assemblies, allowing them to express their<br />
views freely within sight and sound of the intended audience. This handbook<br />
promotes a change of police mentality in approaching the policing of assemblies,<br />
from looking at assemblies as potentially dangerous events to recognizing<br />
assemblies as manifestations of an important human right that the police<br />
must respect and protect. The majority of assemblies are, in fact, peaceful<br />
and do not present particular public order challenges. However, it is crucial<br />
for police to be well prepared and trained to prevent any conflicts related to<br />
assemblies, as well as to de-escalate tensions should they arise." (page 7, Forward)<br />
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"<span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"><b>Counter-Demonstration</b></span>: This is a particular form of simultaneous assembly<br />
in which <b>participants wish to express their opposition to the views expressed</b><br />
<b>at another assembly</b>. Emphasis should be placed on the state’s duty to protect<br />
and facilitate each event where a <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-demonstration</span> occurs. The state should<br />
make available adequate policing resources to facilitate such simultaneous<br />
assemblies, to the extent possible, within sight and sound of one another.<br />
However, it should be noted that the right to <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-demonstrate</span> does<br />
not extend to inhibiting the right of others to assemble. There may be<br />
Part I. Chapter 1. The Right to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly 17<br />
circumstances where the authorities may legitimately restrict the right of<br />
<span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-demonstrators</span> to protest within sight and sound of the assembly they<br />
are protesting against in order to protect the other assembly." (pages 16-17)<br />
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"If an assembly is confronted by a <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter demonstration</span> that seeks to restrict<br />
the rights of people to peacefully assemble, then the <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter demonstration</span><br />
is no longer protected by international human rights law." (page 21)<br />
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"The fact that an assembly is likely to face a violent <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-protest</span>, or even to
be directly attacked by dissenting people, should not, as a matter of principle,
lead to the prohibition of the peaceful assembly. In that case, it is the responsibility
of the police to protect the peaceful assembly against the attacks or
the violence of <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-protesters</span>." (page 21)<br />
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"<span style="background-color: #fce5cd;">The starting point for police should always be the proactive policing of order</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fce5cd;">rather than the reactive policing of disorder.</span> The relevant police commander<br />
will need to continuously monitor the situation to assess the dynamics of<br />
the assembly, onlookers and, where necessary, <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-demonstrators</span>, so that<br />
they can best manage the situation to ensure that peaceful order is maintained.<br />
This may mean that the police need to be flexible in relation to any<br />
legal restrictions placed on an assembly and to minor infractions of the law.<br />
An approach that is too rigid to both may increase tension and provoke more<br />
hostile or aggressive responses from participants. Even in situations where<br />
some voices promote confrontation or violence the police should be able to<br />
counter such influences if they remain aware of the differentiation among<br />
participants, draw upon their knowledge of the range of groups and individuals<br />
who are present, maintain a positive relationship with people and act with<br />
discretion and tolerance." (page 24)<br />
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"In some contexts the police may need to use force to protect those participating<br />
in an assembly if they are faced by hostile or aggressive <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter demonstrations</span>.<br />
In such contexts, the police should seek to differentiate between the<br />
aggressors and the targets of the aggression, and remember that they have a<br />
responsibility to protect the rights of those exercising their right to peaceful<br />
assembly." (page 31)<br />
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"Commanders should outline the specific risk (e.g., the risks associated with<br />
the presence of a much larger number of participants than anticipated or the<br />
risks associated with the presence of <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter-demonstrators</span>) and how they<br />
can be dealt with. Contingencies should be put in place for emergency situations<br />
and worse-case scenarios (e.g., sudden bad weather conditions)." (page 39)<br />
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"In assessing potential risks and hazards, the strategic commander should<br />
always be mindful of a variety of possible different scenarios that may<br />
unfold in the run up to and during the assembly. Scenarios may be<br />
impacted by factors such as the number of people who may attend; their<br />
political affiliations; the purpose of the assembly, including whether they<br />
relate to other events taking place at the same time (e.g., visits of heads of<br />
state, summits); the presence of <span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counter demonstrations</span>; the presence of<br />
other activities in the vicinity; the location of the assembly and the route,<br />
if it involves a march; and the time of day, weather conditions and other<br />
potentially relevant factors." (page 55)<br />
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"Information must be gathered about the following areas:<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Why is the assembly taking place? Who is the assembly for or against?<br />
Could the presence of police inflame the demonstrators or onlookers? Is<br />
the focus of the assembly likely to trigger a (violent?) response from other<br />
parts of the society?<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Who will be taking part in the assembly? Previous history? Age and gender<br />
profile? Known intelligence on intentions? Who are the local community?<br />
Who are the transient (passer-by) community? Will there be<br />
counterdemonstrators or hostile members of the audience?<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> What are the intentions of the participants (note that intentions among<br />
participants and groups within the assembly may differ)? Is there intelligence<br />
about secondary intentions? Some sub-groups attending an<br />
assembly may have the intention of mounting a secondary protest or<br />
demonstration.<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Where is the assembly due to take place? Are there any significant locations<br />
that may be targeted by the event or some of the participants or<br />
<span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">counterdemonstrators</span>? What traffic concerns are there? Intended route?<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> When will assembly take place? What time of day and year? What are the<br />
weather conditions? Travel implications (availability of public transport at<br />
time of dispersal)?<br />
•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> How are individuals going to arrive at the assembly? How are they<br />
intending to leave? Are there suitable exit routes and transport from the<br />
assembly point? Is it going to be a static event or a march? Will there be<br />
structures built, such as stages for speakers or loudspeakers?" (page 60)<br />
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<b>ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSIONS:</b> If you want your protest to be legal, it must be non-violent. You should plan it with that goal in mind, including prohibiting your own participants from bringing items that can be used as weapons -- either by them or against them. If you are planning a protest that needs a permit, dialogue with the police or city permit officials regarding the potential for counter protesters. If you are the one planning a counter protest, find out if you need a permit for your gathering. Tensions between two groups can lead to deadly consequences, as has been seen at recent protests. If you are planning a protest that does not need a permit, but you expect there might be trouble with counter demonstrators either being violent or disrupting by, for example, showing up with a bullhorn or megaphone and trying to drown our or overcome your protest, talk in advance with the local police.<br />
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Below is a video of a demonstration - counter-demonstration that became very violent when the two groups clashed. This is an example of what is not supposed to happen.<br />
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-68121183349040078612018-02-19T21:04:00.000-08:002018-04-22T11:34:21.467-07:00March for Our Lives to End School Shootings: How to Plan a Protest<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>March for Our Lives to End School Shootings:</b></div>
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<b>How to Plan a Protest</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.<br />
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<b>See also:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/high-school-protest-rights.html">High School Protest Rights</a></div>
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Students from Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, are holding a nationwide march against School Shootings on <b>Saturday, March 24, 2018.</b><br />
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You can help fund the march by donating to this GoFundMe:<br />
<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/8psm8-march-for-our-lives">https://www.gofundme.com/8psm8-march-for-our-lives</a><br />
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You can read more about the plans, as they develop, here:<br />
<a href="https://www.marchforourlives.com/">https://www.marchforourlives.com/</a><br />
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You can read FAQ here: <a href="https://www.marchforourlives.com/faq">https://www.marchforourlives.com/faq</a><br />
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<b>HOW TO PLAN A MARCH - BASIC INFO:</b><br />
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<b>1. Look around </b>and see if a march is already planned for your city, town, suburb, or school. If so, you may wish to join those already planning. Or you may wish to start your own.<br />
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2. The <b>DATE</b> is <b>Saturday March 24, 2018.</b><br />
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3. The <b>TOPIC </b>is to <b>End School Shootings.</b><br />
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4. The theme color is <b><span style="background-color: orange;">ORANGE. </span> </b>That is the nationwide color. That means, anything orange helps - orange hats, orange shirts, orange jackets, orange signs, etc.<br />
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5. Pick a TIME and PLACE.<br />
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6. A <b>Two hour time slot</b> is what is usually allowed by most cities and also is the most successful at having a peaceful, legal protest that remains on topic. The best time slot on a Saturday is usually a 2 hour time slot in the range between noon and 4 pm. Such as noon - 2:00pm or 1:00pm - 3:00pm or 2:00pm -4:00pm. Personally, I think 2:00pm to 4:00pm is best. That way, people can start arriving any time after 1:00pm and if it goes a little over 4:00pm, it is no big deal.<br />
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7. <b>PLACE:</b> Most protests will probably be a RALLY followed by a MARCH. If you hold the rally in a publicly-owned plaza, you should not need a permit, but you should check with your City or town to see if some other group has reserved the space for that time slot. You'll need to call whoever it is that books the space.<br />
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A REAL GOOD PLAN FOR AN EASY PROTEST IS TO HAVE A RALLY IN A PUBLICLY-OWNED PLAZA for 45 minutes, and then go for a MARCH for an hour, and then end out back at the same plaza. That way, people can easily find where they locked their bikes, or find the public transportation that they arrived on, or find where they parked their car.<br />
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<b>If you are <i>not</i> getting a permit, in most places, you CANNOT DO these things:</b><br />
1. Build a stage or platform, hang any banners, set up any tents, or serve food.<br />
2. Set up a sound system (except maybe a very small one)<br />
3. Block the streets.<br />
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<b>If you are <i>not </i>getting a permit, in most places, you CAN DO these things:</b><br />
1. Gather round and a speaker or announcer can stand on an existing staircase, bench, etc.<br />
2. You can use a bullhorn or small sound system that can be carried by one person.<br />
3. You can have signs, drums, balloons.<br />
4. Invite people to speak.<br />
5. Invite people to play music or drums.<br />
6. MARCH. If your group will fit on the sidewalks, they should go on the sidewalks. If your group is large and needs to be in the street, the police are supposed to facilitate it so you can march in the street or in part of the street.<br />
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<b>IT IS NEVER LEGAL TO DO ANY OF THESE THINGS at any PROTEST:</b><br />
1. Put stickers on any surface.<br />
2. Spray paint on anything.<br />
3. Start anything on fire.<br />
4. Surround any vehicle. Tip or rock any vehicle. Harass occupants of any vehicle.<br />
5. Bring any weapons or fireworks.<br />
6. Throw anything.<br />
7. Break any glass.<br />
8. Break anything.<br />
9. Hit or harm any person in any way.<br />
10. Threaten any person or harass any person.<br />
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<b>8. PUBLICIZE. </b>ONCE YOU HAVE YOUR TIME AND PLACE, then PUBLICIZE that using Facebook, Twitter, emails, word of mouth, press releases, etc.<br />
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<b style="background-color: orange;">INVITE live streamers, citizen journalists, independent media, mainstream media. </b><br />
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<b>9. PLAN YOUR PROTEST.</b><br />
Invite speakers. Invite Music. Get people to make signs (hold a sign-making party?)<br />
The nationwide theme color is <span style="background-color: orange;">ORANGE.</span><br />
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<b>A Good Two Hour Agenda might look like this:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1:30pm - 2:00: </b>People arrive. Music Playing. People setting things up,<br />
<b>2:00 - 2:45: </b>Rally with speakers, each with a time slot that you keep to tightly. Ideally, a featured speaker might be given 6 or 7 minutes, and others might get 4 or 5 minutes. Less is more.<br />
<b>2:45 - 3:45: </b>March - and end back at rally location. When planning a route, go out and walk it in advance to see how long it takes.<br />
<b>3:45 - 4:00: </b>Clean up.<br />
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<b>HELPFUL HINTS:</b><br />
<b>1. Get people to bring bottles of water.</b> You can place boxes of bottles of water on the ground or on a bench, so people can find it and take a bottle. Having water available will prevent people from getting dehydrated and sick.<br />
<b>2. Bring a whole box of garbage bags</b> and CLEAN UP the space afterwards. Leave the space better than you found it. Get the garbage bags into a trash bin if possible, or take them home with you. If you leave trash bags on location, they will likely be ripped open and the contents scattered.<br />
<b>3. Ask people to please not bring flyers,</b> since these end out all over the ground. If someone brings flyers, tell them to be sure to pick up all the flyers at the rally and along the march route. Hand them a trash bag for this purpose.<br />
<b>4. Plan for bathrooms.</b> For this march, people will probably not be renting portapotties -- but if they can, that is good. Find out what bathrooms might be nearby or along the route.<br />
<b>5. Public Transportation, Parking, Bike Racks.</b> Gather all this information and let people know.<br />
<b>6. Handicapped. </b>Try to plan your location and route so that handicapped people will be able to participate. That means finding what public transportation is nearby and accessible, planning a route that has safe street crossings and ramps, which nearby places have a handicapped-accessible bathroom, pacing your march so handicapped people can keep up, and possibly assigning helpers to those who are handicapped, if they want a helper(s).<br />
<b>7. ALWAYS clean up afterwards! </b>Leave your rally plaza and march route better and cleaner than you found it!<br />
<b>8. LEGAL:</b> Have phone numbers for lawyers or legal organizations in case things happen and anyone gets arrested.<br />
<b>9. MEDIA.</b> INVITE live streamers, citizen journalists, independent media, mainstream media. Make videos and post them online! Take lots of pictures! Live Tweet your march.<br />
<span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"><b>NOTE:</b> IF YOU LIVE STREAM, TWEET, TAKE PICTURES, ETC., THEN YOU ARE EXPANDING YOUR MARCH PARTICIPATION TO FAR MANY MORE PEOPLE WHO WERE NOT ABLE TO BE THERE IN PERSON. </span><br />
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<b>SEE THESE OTHER POSTS FOR EXTRA INFORMATION:</b><br />
<b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2017/08/planning-against-terrorism-in-protests.html">Planning Against Terrorism in Protests</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2016/11/how-to-run-protest-basics.html">How to Run a Protest: Basics</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/10/quick-protest-planning-10-easy-steps.html">Quick Protest Planning: 10 Easy Steps</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2016/11/questions-about-protests.html">Questions about Protests</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/10/agents-provocateurs-what-and-who-they.html">Agents Provocateurs</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/01/hijacking-protest-how-to-prevent-it.html">Hijacking a Protest: How to Prevent It</a></b><br />
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-89785860355909996602018-02-18T16:33:00.000-08:002018-04-22T11:32:35.449-07:00Why School Walkouts Are Elitist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Why School Walkouts are Elitist</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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<b>See also:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/high-school-protest-rights.html">High School Protest Rights</a></div>
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I'm going to explain why national or regional School Walkouts are elitist. Please follow along. I have done legal work in this field.<br />
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A school walkout means students walk out during school. This is tolerated differently in wealthy white schools than it is in schools where most students are poor, Hispanic, Black, and/ or immigrants.<br />
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Wealthier white schools may use a walkout as a teaching moment. The principal or teachers might endorse or participate.<br />
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Most Hispanic and Black schools have much stricter rules and policies. These usually cite "gang" activity as the reason for much stricter rules and increased punishments.<br />
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Schools within the exact same school district may (and often do) have different rules for schools that are predominantly Hispanic or Black. These rules are often hard to locate and may be disseminated only within the school, or not disseminated.<br />
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Walking out or advocating for a walkout in a Hispanic or Black school can result in expulsion or even arrest. Many such schools do not even allow for flyers to be passed in or near the school.<br />
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In addition, students from lower economic homes will have much harder times getting legal help. There is no financial or social incentive for the school to be lenient. There aren't usually lawyers in the students' family social circles.<br />
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Also, many Hispanic and Black students who walk out are, in fact, walking out into dangerous neighborhoods, where danger of being shot or beaten up exists on a daily basis.<br />
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Also, many Hispanic students may have immigration issues, or their parents may -- which makes any arrest or school trouble much riskier, especially now.<br />
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There are many other reasons - but basically, school walkouts are elitist and those who are from Hispanic or Black schools disproportionately face consequences.<br />
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In addition, even Saturday marches can be a burden on poorer students, who may not be able to afford transportation, may face danger in travel, and may be expected to work or care for siblings on weekends. It can help if buses or transportation can be provided.<br />
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If you want all students to have a fair chance to participate in a protest, don't hold it on a school day and don't run a walkout. Walkouts are elitist.<br />
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-30899860954576277472017-11-02T09:00:00.000-07:002018-07-06T22:04:48.759-07:00Protests: International Standards 2016<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>Protests: International Standards 2016</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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The expert panel of OSCE ODIHR has issued <b><a href="http://www.osce.org/odihr/226981?download=true">Human Rights Handbook on Policing Assemblies</a></b>, its latest guidebook on international standards for protests. You can download a pdf of the guidebook <a href="http://www.osce.org/odihr/226981?download=true">HERE</a>. Previous versions in earlier years have leaned toward vague and euphemistic wording and idealistic expectations. This 2016 version is more specific and useful, perhaps because of the addition of 10 panelists from police departments worldwide. <br />
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On this panel from the U.S., there is Ralph Price, General Counsel of the Office of the Superintendent from the Chicago Police Department. Chicago has an excellent recent track record of large protests with no major trouble. Chicago has also been able to hold huge non-protest events with only minor expected problems. These events have included the November 2016 rally and parade for the Chicago Cubs World Series win, which the City of Chicago estimates had an <a href="https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20161104/downtown/cubs-rally-parade-attendance-5-million">attendance of 5 million people,</a> making it the largest gathering ever in the United States and the <a href="http://wistedsifter.com/2016/11/ten-largest-gatherings-in-human-history/">seventh largest gathering in world history</a>. By any measure, this makes the Chicago Police experts at handling crowds. This sort of real world expertise helps make this new guidebook quite useful.<br />
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<b>Note:</b> OSCE ODIHR stands for Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Office of Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.<b> <a href="https://www.osce.org/participating-states">OSCE has 57 participating nations</a> </b>on 3 continents of Europe, North America, and Asia. <br />
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In this guidebook,<b> "assembly" specifically means a protest </b>of some sort. This guidebook lists "meetings, rallies, pickets, demonstrations, marches, processions, parades and flash mobs." Glaringly absent is almost any mention of <b>camping </b>or tent protests, which have been prevalent worldwide over the past 5 years. Page 13 of the guidebook makes this statement, but fails to call it "camping," and fails to mention tents: "Though they (protests) are usually of temporary nature, they may also last for considerable time, with their semi-permanent structures in place for several months." After this brief mention, the topic of camping as a protest is dropped. In fact, since the Occupy protests, camping protests have become popular worldwide.<br />
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Also missing is any mention of a <b>sit-in</b>, which is a short or long term residence inside a building. Another term used for this is <b>occupation</b>. For example, in January 2016, armed protesters at the Maleur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occupation_of_the_Malheur_National_Wildlife_Refuge">took over a lodge-like park office building</a> that was closed for the season. This was called an occupation, an armed occupation, a stand-off. <br />
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<b>Camping and sit-in protests</b> involve the occupation and exclusive use of space meant to be shared by others. These protests are often highly effective at galvanizing dissent and thus, may be highly useful to a democracy. They are also where law enforcement most needs to be guided and restrained. If you have been paying attention to the recent police actions against the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/dakota-access-protests-facts-facebook_us_5818baece4b064e1b4b4e3cf">Standing Rock Sioux Tribe </a>and allied protesters of the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/dakota-access-protests-facts-facebook_us_5818baece4b064e1b4b4e3cf">Dakota Access Pipeline</a> that proposes to send oil through several U.S. States, you have seen protesters sprayed with water in freezing temperatures, attacked with chemical weapons, and injured with projectiles shot from guns. The "No DAPL" protesters have a huge groundswell of support and appear to be holding ground on land that rightly belongs to their tribe. Yet, stories of abuse by law enforcement against the protesters are cropping up daily. The photos and videos are hard to deny.<br />
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<b>Flash mobs</b> are also listed in the "Types of Assemblies" (pg 15), but are only minimally addressed thereafter. This may be because a peaceful flash mob will usually be over and gone before there can be any police response.<br />
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Another topic that is missing from the guidebook is the <b>manner of making arrests</b>. This is glossed over. In the U.S., there has developed a widespread practice of police forcing a person to the ground to arrest the person. This has led to many cases of injury and to physical abuse committed by police. The arrestee is often ordered or forced to the ground, usually for no apparent reason. Often, a police officer places a knee into the back of the person on the ground. This surely causes injury to anyone and has been known to cause severe injury and death. Numerous videos show multiple police officers piling onto a person on the ground. Many videos show the person on the ground being kicked, beaten, or even shot (though shooting is usually in individual encounters and not in protest situations.) The method and manner of arrest is an issue of dire, immediate importance in human rights with regard to policing. The guidebook would have been far more balanced if the panel had included those who plan and participate in protests, rather than such a theory-only based panel. It is way past time for any groups interested in human rights to address the manner and method of making an arrest.<br />
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Another topic that is missing is the widespread practice of <b>targeting peaceful leaders for arrest</b>. Again, including panelists with real protest experience would have been useful. Leaders of protests are often "picked off" by police in what are essentially random kidnappings. Again, there is often video to show that such arrests come about with no provocation or need.<br />
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Another major topic that the guidelines do not address is the <b>jamming or other interference with wifi or phone signals</b>, and/or the use of <b>stingrays to gather data from devices</b>. These actions by police to sabotage personal and journalistic media and communications should be prohibited.<br />
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<b>Thus, I suggest that in future versions of such OSCE ODIHR guidebooks on policing for protests:</b><br />
<ol>
<li> That <b>additional panelists</b> be included to reflect a more well-rounded viewpoint, including those who plan and participate in protests;</li>
<li> That <b>camping</b> protests be addressed;</li>
<li>That<b> sit-in</b> or <b>occupation</b> protests be addressed;</li>
<li>That the specific <b>method and manner of arrests</b> be addressed and that police be prohibited from requiring or forcing any person to lie on the ground;</li>
<li>That the practice of <b>targeting peaceful leaders for arrest</b> be prohibited.</li>
<li>That police should be prohibited from jamming or <b>interfering with wifi or phone signals</b> or from <b>using stingrays</b> to gather data.</li>
</ol>
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<b>Among the positive highlights of the guidebook as the topics relate to the protesters or those engaged in the assembly , I have found these things (These are being numbered for use in referencing them; they are not in any order of importance.)</b><br />
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<b>1. Freedom of peaceful assembly is a fundamental human right</b> and, as such,
is considered one of the cornerstones of a democratic society. (pg 12)<br />
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<b>2. That protests often block traffic or cause inconvenience</b>: "Many assemblies will also cause some degree of disruption to routine activities; they may occupy roads and thoroughfares or impact traffic, pedestrians and the business community. Such disruption caused by the exercise of fundamental freedoms must be treated with some degree of tolerance. It must be recognized that public spaces are as much for people to assemble in as they are for other types of activity, and thus the right to assemble must be facilitated. (pg 13)<br />
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<b>3. That there must be a balancing act between the different people wishing to use the space: </b>"Where peaceful protest interferes with the rights and freedoms of others it will often be the responsibility of the police to balance respect for of those rights with the right to freedom of assembly." (pg 14)<br />
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<b>4. That there is a human right to peaceful assembly, but not to engage in violence against property or people: </b> "The right to assemble is a right to assemble peacefully. There is no right to act in a violent manner when exercising one’s right to assemble. If an individual acts violently while participating in an assembly, then that individual is no longer exercising a protected human right. However, violent acts by isolated individuals do not necessarily affect the right to assemble of those who remain peaceful." (pg 15)<br />
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<b>5. Even if the protesters fail to comply with regulations (such as local regulations that may require a permit) police should still facilitate the protest:</b> "It should be noted that even though an assembly organizer or individual participants may fail to comply with legal requirements for assemblies, this alone does not release the police from their obligation to protect and facilitate an assembly that remains peaceful." (pg 15)<br />
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<b>6. What is "peaceful assembly"?</b> "Peaceful Assembly: An assembly should be deemed peaceful if the organizers have professed peaceful intentions and the conduct of the participants is non-violent. Peaceful intention and conduct should be presumed unless there is compelling and demonstrable evidence that those organizing or participating in that particular event themselves intend to use, advocate or incite imminent violence. The term “peaceful” should be interpreted to include expressive conduct that may annoy or give offence, and even conduct that temporarily hinders, impedes or obstructs the activities of third parties. 2 An assembly should be considered peaceful, and thus facilitated by the authorities, even if the organizers have not complied with all legal requirements. Lack of such compliance should not be an excuse to inhibit, disrupt or try to prevent an assembly." (pg. 14-15)<br />
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<b>7. What is <i>not</i> "peaceful assembly"?</b> "Assemblies that incite hatred, violence or war, aim to deliberately restrict or deny the rights of others or aim to intimidate, harass or threaten others, in violation of applicable law, are not considered to be protected assemblies. Article 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights states that “any propaganda for war shall be prohibited by law, and that any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence shall be prohibited by law.” (pg 15)<br />
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<b>8. If some of the protesters are violent, police should deal with those individuals and not deny the whole group the right to assemble: </b>"If individuals or small groups of people engage in acts of physical violence during an assembly, the police should always ensure that their response is proportionate and focuses on those who are engaged in violent behaviour rather than directed at the participants in the assembly more generally. This is true whether the violence is directed against the police, individuals, property, people within the assembly or those perceived to be in opposition." (pg 18)<br />
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<b>Example from recent news: </b>Such a situation was seen at a recent protest in Portland, Oregon, after the 2016 presidential election. A very large protest took place. A small subset of individuals came armed with bats and metal bars, and broke windows on shops and smashed the windows and metal on cars. The Portland police were heard on videos telling those not engaged in the violence to separate themselves from the violent protesters and go protest at a different location where peaceful protests were being held. The police then declared the area a riot and stated that all present were under arrest. Overall, it appeared that the Portland police did a good job of protecting the rights of the peaceful protesters while being able to arrest a significant number of the violent protesters. <br />
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<b>9. Costs of Policing should not be charged to protesters or organizers. Insurance coverage should not be required:</b> "The costs of providing adequate security and safety (including policing and traffic management operations) should be fully covered by the public authorities. The state must not levy any financial charge for providing adequate policing. Organizers of non-commercial public assemblies should not be required to obtain public-liability insurance for their event." (pg 21)<br />
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<b>NOTE:</b> I would like to see this expanded to say that a City should open its available public restrooms for use by those in an assembly or protest. Other nearby facilities, such as park benches, picnic tables, public transportation stations and bus stops, drinking fountains and water spigots, electrical outlets, bicycle racks, and other existing facilities should be open and their use not denied to protesters. <br />
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<b>10. Police should not interfere with or restrict media journalists. </b> No distinction should be made between media organizations and independent journalists. People should be allowed to video or photograph the police. Police should not confiscate or damage cameras, cell phones, or other equipment of the journalists. (pgs 33-34)<br />
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<b>11. That police officers may never act as agents provocateurs:</b> "That officers must not act as agents provocateurs and may never instigate, participate or incite illegal actions within the assembly." (pg 71) This topic is limited to a single sentence, but should instead be printed in huge bold letters taking up an entire page. There are many stories of police acting as agents provocateurs and trying to incite violence or entrap protesters. It is heartening to see this despicable practice prohibited by OSCE ODIHR.<br />
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<b>12. Policing Strategy:</b> Part II of the guidebook, which is pages 42-125, deals with the police planning and strategy. Topics include the use of water cannons, chemical agents, impact round (less than lethal weapons), and firearms. Notably absent is discussion of the use of a sound cannon or LRAD. If you are involved in planning protests or in giving legal advice or assistance to those who do plan protests, you should read this entire section. It will give you a picture of the details of planning, infrastructure, and expense that go into running a police force that can properly handle public assemblies. (pgs 42-125) It can also help you understand the rights of protesters and how to protect them from harm. Although each city in the U.S. and each city worldwide all have different specific laws regarding public assembly, there is a commonality to the approach. This guidebook is an attempt to get the OSCE member nations all on the same framework of respect for human rights in peaceful assemblies. <br />
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<b>NOTE: </b>My personal observation has been that the more organizers and protesters or participants in public assemblies are aware of the laws, rules, regulations, and practices of the police and city, the more likely the protest is to be peaceful. The more people can engage in peaceful protest, the better the democracy. Protest and assembly are basic human rights that lead to better government.<br />
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So, too, the more aware that people are of the possibility that there may be people who show up at a peaceful protest with the intent of disrupting it with violence or chaos, the more likely the peaceful ones are to separate themselves from the violence. Knowledge is a powerful thing.<br />
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<b>More about OSCE:</b><br />
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The OSCE has 57 participating States from Europe, Central Asia and North America:</div>
<ul class="list-multicol" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: square outside; margin: 0px; padding: 1.14286em 0px 1.14286em 2.57143em; vertical-align: baseline; width: 620.016px;">
<li class="col col-1" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: right; float: left; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 12.4219px; margin-top: 0px !important; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 186.391px;"><ul style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: square outside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Albania</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Andorra</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Armenia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Austria</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Azerbaijan</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Belarus</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Belgium</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bosnia and Herzegovina</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bulgaria</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Canada</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Croatia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Cyprus</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Czech Republic</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Denmark</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Estonia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Finland</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">France</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Georgia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Germany</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Greece</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li class="col col-2" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: right; float: left; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 12.4219px; margin-top: 0px !important; padding: 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline; width: 186.391px;"><ul style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: square outside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Holy See</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Hungary</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Iceland</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Ireland</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Italy</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Kazakhstan</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Kyrgyzstan</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Latvia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Liechtenstein</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lithuania</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Luxembourg</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Malta</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Moldova</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Monaco</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Mongolia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Montenegro</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Netherlands</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Norway</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Poland</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Portugal</li>
</ul>
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<li class="col col-3" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: right; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px !important; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 186.391px;"><ul style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: square outside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Romania</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Russian Federation</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">San Marino</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Serbia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Slovakia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Slovenia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Spain</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sweden</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Switzerland</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Tajikistan</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Turkey</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Turkmenistan</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Ukraine</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">United Kingdom</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">United States</li>
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: square; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Uzbekistan</li>
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<b>About my involvement with OSCE ODIHR:</b> Susan Basko, the author of this article, is a lawyer in the United States of America. Among other things, she assists those who want to plan a protest. She is open in helping people from the wide spectrum of political and personal viewpoints. IN 2012, she assisted OSCE ODIHR in a study of protests throughout the world, with her expertise being lent to the U.S. protests taking place in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Oakland, California. Ms. Basko was invited by OSCE ODIHR to participate in a summit of leaders and activists from around the globe. That meeting was held in Vienna, Austria. Ms. Basko contributed by making proposals for international laws to require nations not to interfere with internet or phone signals during a protest. That proposal was accepted by the assembly and became part of the recommendations for laws sent to the 57 participating nations. Ms. Basko sees OSCE ODIHR as the organization making the biggest impact worldwide to protect the human rights of freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom of the media. <br />
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-23650146048711028902017-08-15T11:41:00.000-07:002018-04-16T14:38:59.523-07:00Planning Against Terrorism in Protests<center>
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<b>Planning Against Terrorism in Protests</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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See also: <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/counter-protesters-or-counter.html">Counter-Protesters and Counter-Demonstrators</a></div>
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On August 12, 2017, a man named James Alex Fields drove his car at a fast speed through a large group of protesters, as seen in the short video above. The video is credited to Brennan Gilmore, who was present at the protest live streaming video. Mr. Fields has been arrested and charged with murder and other counts. The protest and terror act took place in Charlottesville, Virginia.<br />
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Let's talk about protest planning and how to lessen the opportunities for similar terrorist acts. People engaging in such violent acts are usually mentally unstable, and their acts in turn inspire other mentally unstable people. Monkey see, monkey do. If you are planning a protest now, you need to plan with major safety consideration in mind.<br />
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First, notice how the street in the video above is narrow, with low sidewalks and buildings closely lining each side. This bowling alley type set-up gives a driver intent on mowing down people an ideal set up. The people are condensed and concentrated in the narrow street, with very few places to escape the car racing up from behind.<br />
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Plan your location and route in advance of your protest. Actually go out in person, or use google street view if you cannot go in person. Look for protective barriers. When you plan a protest, look for such things as:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Barriers before a street, to make it more difficult for a driver to enter.</li>
<li>High curbs.</li>
<li>On a bridge, barriers of at least one foot between the road and sidewalk.</li>
<li>Large cement planters and other large objects that can blockade a vehicle.</li>
<li>Places to escape to, such as courtyards, other streets, large buildings that are open, parks, beaches, etc. The route should have many escape routes. </li>
<li>Avoid marches and rallies near any multi-story parking garages. These can be accessed by anyone and can be used by a sniper.</li>
</ul>
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Consider asking for a police escort, so that the rear of your march is somewhat protected. However, note that in Charlottesville, the attack car plowed through the crowd of people and then smashed into another vehicle, which then smashed into a third vehicle. Some of the worst injuries occurred to people sandwiched between the vehicles. It may be that an attacker is less likely to drive into a marked police vehicle. It depends how brazen the attacker is. Many such attackers plan to die as part of their attack and they may be attracted to encounters with police.<br />
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If you are holding a rally, look for a place that has protective barriers. Most federal buildings have barriers designed specifically to prevent a car attack. Let's look at some examples.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gU8HsSMOIsQ/WZM2rM1Iv9I/AAAAAAAAA7s/px8w7v3d384r-3-41n3OosVCJvVWDmbzgCLcBGAs/s1600/Federal%2BBuilding%2BChicago%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="893" height="227" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gU8HsSMOIsQ/WZM2rM1Iv9I/AAAAAAAAA7s/px8w7v3d384r-3-41n3OosVCJvVWDmbzgCLcBGAs/s320/Federal%2BBuilding%2BChicago%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Federal Building, Chicago</td></tr>
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This picture shows a Federal Building in Chicago. Notice the large barriers. Barriers like this should prevent most vehicles from getting past. However, the barriers here protect only the building and the small adjacent plaza area. There are not such barriers to protect the large plaza area by the Post Office next door, which is where most protests and other public gatherings take place. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YBAiEfXZFK8/WZM2rfVV8-I/AAAAAAAAA7w/hlJQUyUoMMkAKH1VcJ3puynhLL-MLOYWgCLcBGAs/s1600/Federal%2BBuilding%252C%2BChicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="1354" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YBAiEfXZFK8/WZM2rfVV8-I/AAAAAAAAA7w/hlJQUyUoMMkAKH1VcJ3puynhLL-MLOYWgCLcBGAs/s320/Federal%2BBuilding%252C%2BChicago.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This photo shows another Federal Building across the street. Notice the barriers.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oFi40V_uUCg/WZM2qZ24usI/AAAAAAAAA7k/P9Q7IT1cY1kTea6arrO3Pk59rhvKL0D9ACLcBGAs/s1600/%2BPost%2BOffice%252C%2BChicago%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="878" height="234" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oFi40V_uUCg/WZM2qZ24usI/AAAAAAAAA7k/P9Q7IT1cY1kTea6arrO3Pk59rhvKL0D9ACLcBGAs/s320/%2BPost%2BOffice%252C%2BChicago%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plaza outside Post Office in downtown Chicago</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">This is the adjacent public plaza, in front of the Post Office. This plaza lacks protection. This is where many protest rallies are held in Chicago. Maybe barriers should be erected? If you hold a protest here, be aware of the dangerous layout. </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwjmB9RKg1w/WZM2qRScfzI/AAAAAAAAA7o/cy0FdTqrrXUz2tVhn70jQdCaGlDwG6OEACLcBGAs/s1600/Daley%2BPlaza%252C%2BChicago%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="886" height="232" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwjmB9RKg1w/WZM2qRScfzI/AAAAAAAAA7o/cy0FdTqrrXUz2tVhn70jQdCaGlDwG6OEACLcBGAs/s320/Daley%2BPlaza%252C%2BChicago%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daley Plaza, Chicago</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">This is Daley Plaza in Chicago, where many protest rallies are held. Notice how the edges of the plaza are unprotected -- low curb, no barriers. The center of the plaza is protected by a barrier of concrete benches and planters. These are probably enough to stop or disable a vehicle.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QBStyllGHIc/WZM2qXwtKHI/AAAAAAAAA7g/BGT6Fu6ZD3IojGrBn4IwE1CQhKDPqaNjQCLcBGAs/s1600/Daley%2BPlaza%2BChicago%2Bbarriers%2B5.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QBStyllGHIc/WZM2qXwtKHI/AAAAAAAAA7g/BGT6Fu6ZD3IojGrBn4IwE1CQhKDPqaNjQCLcBGAs/s640/Daley%2BPlaza%2BChicago%2Bbarriers%2B5.jpg" /></a><br />
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Daley Plaza, Chicago </div>
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Notice that the plaza center has a variety of types of barriers: concrete benches, concrete planters, steel fencing for a subway staircase, cement barrier walls for the subway, and posts.<br />
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STREET MEDICS. Another Safety Planning consideration is to be sure your protest group has trained medics in the crowd, carrying supplies. At this article, you can see a picture of a terribly injured woman, and a second photo of her after she has been given First Aid by a Street Medic. This street medic did an amazing job of getting this woman cleaned up and her head bandaged. In the aftermath of this terrorist attack, having medics on hand to give First Aid while awaiting ambulances and EMTs gave crucial and probably life-saving support. Don't expect your medics to pay for their own supplies. That should be an expense undertaken by the group.</div>
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<a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4787312/Horrific-injuries-suffered-girl-hit-Charlottesville.html">http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4787312/Horrific-injuries-suffered-girl-hit-Charlottesville.html</a></div>
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What to Put in your Street Medic First Aid Kit:<br />
<a href="http://medic.wikia.com/wiki/What_to_put_in_your_first_aid_kit">http://medic.wikia.com/wiki/What_to_put_in_your_first_aid_kit</a></div>
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Street Medic Guide:<br />
<a href="http://www.paperrevolution.org/street-medic-guide/">http://www.paperrevolution.org/street-medic-guide/</a><br />
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CAMERAS!<br />
High quality, experienced live streamers can provide a measure of safety because they can see and identify trouble while it is brewing. Their videos also provide excellent witness immediately and later during any trial. At the Charlottesville terrorist attack, live streamers provided clear views of the attack, as well as the color, make and model of the car, and a clear view of the license plate number. This allowed for certainty in identifying and apprehending the attacker. People of the Internet had posted the ownership and sales records of the car within minutes of the attack. Shortly after, there was a whole history of the suspect posted online. Shortly after, reporters visited his stunned mother. No doubt, the videos helped shape the criminal charges and will influence any further charges.<br />
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BASICS- PROTEST PLANNING IN LIGHT OF POSSIBLE TERRORIST ATTACKS:</div>
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<ol>
<li>Safety First. Know when to cancel.</li>
<li>Rallies: Look for safety factors in any rally location: barriers, escape routes, lack of multi-story parking lots.</li>
<li>March Routes: Look for high curbs, barriers on bridges between street and sidewalks, avoid narrow, closed-in streets, look for plenty of escape routes, consider asking for police escort.</li>
<li>Street Medics: Recruit well-trained street medics carrying supplies.</li>
<li>Cameras: Invite experienced live streamers and photographers. </li>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-15176005120789468662017-07-03T09:00:00.000-07:002019-07-02T23:32:47.263-07:00Where You Can Protest in Chicago and How<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj9X9abnnIc/Tqz2cr0FLuI/AAAAAAAAAC4/4kOyi7Dj3eA/s1600/SSPX0073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj9X9abnnIc/Tqz2cr0FLuI/AAAAAAAAAC4/4kOyi7Dj3eA/s320/SSPX0073.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> Where You Can Protest in Chicago and How</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
by Sue Basko<br />
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<b>See also: </b><a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/counter-protesters-or-counter.html">Counter-Protesters and Counter-Demonstrators</a><br />
<b>Also see:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/02/chicago-g8-and-nato-protests.html">Chicago NATO Summit Protests</a><br />
<b>Also see:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/02/arrest-and-bail-in-chicago.html">Arrest and Bail in Chicago/ Eavesdropping</a><br />
<b>Also see:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/02/illinois-eavesdropping-law-and-video-at.html">Illinois Eavesdropping Law and Video at Protests</a><br />
<b>Also see:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/02/chicago-news-media-credentials.html">Chicago News Media Credentials</a><br />
<b>See also:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/high-school-protest-rights.html">High School Protest Rights</a></div>
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<b>UPDATE JULY 2017: </b><br />
<b>Here is a basic beginner summary of Where You Can protest in Chicago:</b><br />
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<b>PROTESTING is legal! That is the most important thing you need to know.</b><br />
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Summed up, in Chicago, you can plan a protest WITH <b>NO PERMIT NEEDED</b> if you plan it for a <b>publicly-owned sidewalk </b>in the main area of the City<b> </b> or a <b>publicly-owned plaza</b>. If you are planning your first protest, you want to do it as legally as possible and as cheaply as possible. There will be glitches that might happen anyway, but you want it to go as smoothly as possible from your side.<br />
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<b>Basic Rule:</b> No Permit needed for protest at Public Plaza or Public Sidewalk in main area of city.<br />
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The MAIN publicly owned plazas in Chicago are Richard J. Daley Center Plaza (by the Daley building on Dearborn - Clark - Washington - Randolph), the State of Illinois James R. Thompson Center plaza (on Clark - LaSalle - Randolph - Lake) and the Federal Plaza (by the Post Office on Adams - Jackson - Dearborn - Clark). It is logical to pick the plaza that represents what you are protesting -- if it is a city issue (Daley), state issue (Thompson), or federal issue (Federal plaza). You don't have to protest at the most apt location, but it makes sense to direct your protest at the people or institutions from which you seek redress of your grievances. That is Constitutional language.<br />
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In Chicago, the three main public plazas are also notable for their <b>big sculptures</b>. If you are planning a protest in any of these locations, you can send out a picture of the sculpture and tell people to meet up by the sculpture. These make great landmarks for people who do not know their way around the City.<br />
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<b>Daley Center Picasso:</b><br />
Daley Center plaza has plenty of space, but often has such things as holiday festivals.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jZ2TsaimK0/T2Q5iwkxKeI/AAAAAAAAAUY/cSyNnn-U3uAm1FrlxpDYIhY9Mc9SEvTBACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/DALEYPLAZA%2BPICASSO%2B0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jZ2TsaimK0/T2Q5iwkxKeI/AAAAAAAAAUY/cSyNnn-U3uAm1FrlxpDYIhY9Mc9SEvTBACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/DALEYPLAZA%2BPICASSO%2B0091.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Susan Basko. Picasso sculpture in Daley Center plaza.</td></tr>
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<b>State of Illinois James R. Thompson Center's Jean Dubuffet:</b><br />
The State of Illinois Thompson Center plaza has very limited space. The upside is that during weekday business hours, there are a food court and public bathrooms in the basement of the building.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C4ULEcVsJOM/WVqEFYvvWjI/AAAAAAAAA7E/f5CaTiZhVZAj2-ihzJm10g8VSSuPunEtwCLcBGAs/s1600/James_R._Thompson_Center.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="800" height="264" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C4ULEcVsJOM/WVqEFYvvWjI/AAAAAAAAA7E/f5CaTiZhVZAj2-ihzJm10g8VSSuPunEtwCLcBGAs/s320/James_R._Thompson_Center.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Premundo. Public Domain use. <br />
Thompson Center with Dubuffet Scupture out front.</td></tr>
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<b>Chicago Federal Plaza Alexander Calder "Flamingo":</b><br />
This plaza has plenty of space and there will often be other protest groups at same time. Sometimes there will be a farmer's market or craft fair going, but there should still be space for a protest.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YEpynk-80Qk/WVqF1GTfg1I/AAAAAAAAA7I/wgsdaFqKHTE27qfmSyx0eWIOwOD_jHbQACLcBGAs/s1600/Calder_Flamingo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="253" data-original-width="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YEpynk-80Qk/WVqF1GTfg1I/AAAAAAAAA7I/wgsdaFqKHTE27qfmSyx0eWIOwOD_jHbQACLcBGAs/s1600/Calder_Flamingo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Jeremy A., Fair Use.<br />
ChicagoFederal Plaza Alexander Calder "Flamingo" sculpture.</td></tr>
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Some protests will target the sidewalk in front of the exact building where the topic of their protest occurs, such as a county building, immigration office, etc. You need to do your research and go on a reconnaissance mission to be sure you are choosing the correct location.<br />
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You can also march on the public sidewalks to your heart's content, but let others pass on the sidewalk. Tell your protesters to be polite to others and to offer information if asked. A lot of people want to know what is being protested, what your main talking points are. It's nice if your protesters can sum it up in a single sentence, with more detail for those in the public who want to know more. That's how your protest can educate the public and possibly win them over.<br />
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Some experienced protest organizers run protests in public and private buildings, in the parks, or close traffic by marching in streets. Usually these are people who are willing to get arrested. Fairness dictates that if you want people to attend, you should run your protest legally so that your protesters' lives are not disrupted by arrest. Let the first protest you plan be safe, legal, and a good experience for all involved.<br />
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<b>and on to the show:</b><br />
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<b>****</b></div>
<b>“There is no where to practice free speech in Chicago,” tweeted someone at the Occupy Chicago protests, which have been repeatedly kicked out by the police. This is a guide to WHERE YOU CAN PROTEST IN CHICAGO AND HOW, with quotes from the pertinent sections of the law.</b><br />
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<b>Chicago has certainly greatly curtailed Free Speech and Assembly with the following:</b><br />
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<b>in the Chicago Parks</b> – Gatherings of over 50 people or that use a sound system require a permit, a permit fee, and various expenses. This should not be. There should be designated Free Speech areas, such as Washington Square Park by Newberry Library, which was Chicago's premiere free speech park; and the park space at Michigan Avenue and Congress, known as Congress Plaza ( also known as "the horse" for the historic horse statue there), from which protesters were recently arrested for violating park closing time. No such designated Free Speech and Assembly space exists, and that is a shame, since these rights are being given the chill in most Chicago locations. <a href="http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/assets/1/7/Permits_-_Map_-_Grant_Park.pdf">MAP OF GRANT PARK, CHICAGO</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0jZ2TsaimK0/T2Q5iwkxKeI/AAAAAAAAAUY/EoESKZV5m7k/s1600/DALEYPLAZA+PICASSO+0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0jZ2TsaimK0/T2Q5iwkxKeI/AAAAAAAAAUY/EoESKZV5m7k/s1600/DALEYPLAZA+PICASSO+0091.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picasso Sculpture in Daley Plaza, Chicago</td></tr>
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</b><br />
<b>Plazas</b> – <b>Daley Plaza. </b> Chicago over-books Daley Plaza with all sorts of events, that while charming, use up the one main space that Chicagoans should have available for free speech and assembly. The plaza is even rented to commercial markets. “Rallies” can book the space far in advance, and if they don’t build any stages or other structures and don’t use any set-up workers or electricity from the building, can use the space for free. Still, it seems one space on the plaza should be reserved for First Amendment activity any day, and one day each week should be reserved only for First Amendment activity. Perhaps Free Speech Wednesdays? In addition, every evening should be available for free speech rallies. By law, a public plaza can be used any time 24/7, with no permit, for free speech and assembly. But if the space is filled with a holiday village or a crafts fair, how can this happen?<br />
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<b>State of Illinois Thompson Building Plaza.</b> This building should have a robust First Amendment system in place, and instead has a commercial building management booking spaces for high prices to commercial enterprises. A recent peaceful nighttime vigil in honor of Scott Olsen, a marine critically wounded by a police officer in Oakland, was met at the Thompson Plaza by an intimidating line of police in tactical gear. That chills free speech, to say the least. Such actions by the State make people feel they are somehow wrong or criminal to peaceably assemble for free speech purposes. Heavy police presence at a peaceful vigil service was ugly and un-American. <br />
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<b>WHERE CAN WE PROTEST IN CHICAGO and HOW? </b><br />
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<b>In Chicago law, there are two types of protests: Rallies (public assemblies), and marches. </b>Rallies stay in one place and marches move. Many or most marches begin and/or end with a rally. A rally has to take place in a public plaza, or in a park space if you have a permit for the park space. The march can take place on the sidewalk, or on the street if you have a permit for a street march.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow;">THE EASIEST TYPE OF PROTEST in Chicago that does not need a permit or insurance is a simple rally in a public plaza followed or started by a sidewalk march. To avoid the permit, your group must stay out of the street and not erect any structures and not block the flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic. If there is another group that has reserved the plaza, your group cannot interfere with them. </span></b><br />
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Chicago law treats different types of public places differently for public assembly purposes. I have grouped the types of locations and listed the regulations that apply to each. I also added pertinent sections of the Noise Ordinances, as well as Chicago's Disorderly Conduct law. <br />
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<b>PRIVATELY-OWNED PLACES: </b> Keep in mind -- PRIVATELY-OWNED places are never available for protest activity. That includes shopping malls, private college campuses, businesses or offices, anyone's home, etc. First Amendment exists between the government and the people only. Illinois Criminal Code 720ILCS 5/ Art.21.1) specifically prohibits "picketing" outside anyone's residence, other than outside your own. Flash Mobs: Some people DO plan <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/flash-mob-protests.html">flash mob protests</a> on private property, and you can read about those <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/flash-mob-protests.html">HERE</a>.<br />
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<b>MEDICAL FACILITIES/ CHURCHES:</b> Protesting is not allowed near hospitals, clinics, or any other type of medical facility, or near or in places of worship. If you plan such a protest, consult first with a lawyer. Chicago law prohibits making any noise or otherwise disrupting any religious service.<br />
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<b>IN Chicago, the types of public spaces where you are likely to hold a protest are: </b><i>(see the detailed explanations further below)</i><br />
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I) <b>inside of public buildings</b>, such as City Hall; <br />
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II) <b>sidewalk, not interfering</b> with vehicular or pedestrian traffic flow; <br />
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III) <b>sidewalk</b>, not interfering with vehicular traffic, but <b>reasonably expected to interfere with pedestrian traffic</b>;<br />
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IV) <b>street</b>, requiring street closure or rerouting of traffic;<br />
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V) <b>public plazas</b>, that is, publicly-owned plazas open to the public.<br />
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VI) <b>park property</b>. Park property is divided into parks, beaches and golf courses. This post deals only with parks, not beaches or golf courses. <br />
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VII) <b>NOISE LAWS</b>, SOUND SYSTEMS, MEGAPHONES, AND DRUMMERS <br />
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VIII) <b>CHICAGO DISORDERLY CONDUCT LAW </b><br />
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<b><u>I) INSIDE PUBLIC BUILDINGS: MEETINGS:</u></b> If you wanted to hold a protest inside a building owned by the City, you would need a permit, but one would never be given. But you can protest on the public sidewalk outside, just not too near the doorways. If you want to attend and watch or speak at City Council, a Council Committee, the School Board, Park District board, or other such meeting, you can check online for the schedules, locations, and rules for being allowed to speak. For the most part, you can come to such a meeting with the people in your group, but you probably won’t be allowed to make noise, probably won’t be allowed to carry signs, and will have to follow the agenda and time limits on speaking. If you want your topic to be on the agenda, you need to read up on how to make that happen. <br />
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Some people go in groups to the office of the Mayor or Governor trying to spontaneously get a meeting or to drop off a petition or document. These officials are usually not in their offices, though sometimes a friendly staff person will talk with a group. If you really want to set up a meeting, call ahead and ask to schedule a meeting. Dress and act professionally if you want to be taken seriously. <br />
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Protest groups often DO protest in public buildings, but they usually do so with the intent and plan that they are going to get arrested. Sometimes they will sit in a hall or block elevators. In Chicago, the police or security will usually warn the group, and will often ask each person if they want to leave or be arrested. <br />
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<a href="http://mayor.cityofchicago.org/mayor/en/special_pages/contact_us.html">CONTACT FOR CHICAGO MAYOR'S OFFICE</a><br />
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<a href="http://webapps.cityofchicago.org/eforms/org/cityofchicago/eforms/controller/contactUsForm/preFeedbackForm.do">DIRECT MESSAGE FORM TO CHICAGO MAYOR</a></div>
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<a href="http://www2.illinois.gov/gov/Pages/ContacttheGovernor.aspx">DIRECT CONTACT WITH ILLINOIS GOVERNOR'S OFFICE</a></div>
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<b><u>II) SIDEWALKS, NOT INTERFERING WITH VEHICLE OR PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC:</u> </b><br />
<b> This is the most common form of protest in Chicago where you do not need a permit. </b>You have the right to march in protest on the public sidewalk. If you take up only half of the sidewalk and do not impede the normal flow of pedestrian traffic and if all of your group stops faithfully at each crosswalk and follows the “walk” signal, then you may do so without informing anyone or getting a permit. However, you must be careful with the rules about noise and any amplifying system, and with any musicians, such as drummers. This will be covered further below. <br />
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Illinois Criminal Code 720ILCS 5/ Art.21.1) specifically prohibits "picketing" outside anyone's residence, other than outside your own.<br />
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If you are holding a sidewalk march, you should tell the participants to be polite to others on the sidewalk, not to bump into people, not to curse, etc. <br />
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<b>DRUMMERS</b>: Drummers are okay as long as it is not night and as long as the march is not near an outdoor concert, or near a church or religious building that is holding services, and not near a hospital with sick patients staying inside. If your march keeps moving along, your drum noise also moves along, and no one will be too bothered by it. However, if you situate your protest in one location and have nonstop drumming, there are bound to be complaints.<br />
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<b>March must move.</b> Chicago Police sometimes show up at sidewalk protests that intend to stay in one location and enforce a "keep moving" policy where they make the protesters keep walking in a big loop. Maybe this technicality makes it a protest march? If you want to stay in one place, that is a rally, and you need to do that in a publicly-owned plaza. Read on that below.<br />
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If you are going to impede normal flow of pedestrian traffic, Chicago law says to inform the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation of your intent, as explained just below. <br />
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<b>Crossing the river: </b>If your march is in downtown Chicago and you start south of the river, and you try to cross to north of the river, the police will not likely allow this. This may or may not be a legal limitation, but it is likely to happen. The City now considers North Michigan Avenue more or less off-limits for protests, because there have been problems with flash mob robberies and large annoying groups. If you want to avoid trouble, don't plan your protest north of the river on Michigan Avenue. If you do plan it there for some reason, you will most likely run into trouble or arrests. <br />
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<b><u>III) SIDEWALK, REASONABLY EXPECTED TO INTERFERE WITH VEHICLE OR PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC:</u></b> For this, you must contact the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation, as the laws below explain.<br />
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<b>Commissioner of the Department of Transportation Permit Office: </b><br />
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The permit office is open weekdays (excluding holidays) between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM and is located at:<o:p></o:p></div>
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City Hall – Room 905<o:p></o:p></div>
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121 North La Salle Street<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tel: 312-744-4652 Fax: 312-744-4627 </div>
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<b>PUBLIC ASSEMBLY:</b> In Chicago law, <b>“public assembly" </b>is defined as “(I) a company of persons which is reasonably anticipated to obstruct the normal flow of traffic upon the public way and that is collected together in one place, or (ii) any organized march or procession of persons upon any public sidewalk that is reasonably anticipated to obstruct the normal flow of pedestrian traffic on the public way, but which does not meet the definition of parade set forth in this subsection.” <br />
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<b>“Public assembly”</b> requires you to contact the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation five days in advance, or as soon as practicable if must hold your public assembly asap because it is spontaneous or of an urgent nature. <br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>How to Get the Permit for a Public Assembly:</b></div>
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<b>10-8-330 Parade, public assembly or athletic event.( r )</b> Any person or organization planning to lead or initiate any type of public assembly, including a march or procession upon a public sidewalk, as defined in subsection (a), shall notify the commissioner, at least five business days in advance, or as soon as practicable if the event is of a spontaneous or urgent nature, and shall inform him or her of the date, time, location, route and estimated number of persons participating, so that the city can make any preparations necessary to provide personnel or other city services to minimize the obstruction to pedestrian and other traffic and to otherwise protect the participants and the public. Such public assemblies shall be allowed unless the commissioner informs the person or organization giving the notice, within two days or as soon as practicable before the scheduled event, that there would be a direct interference with a previously planned permitted activity or public assembly, or that there is a significant public safety issue, limited to those set forth for parades in subsection (h)(1) – (3). If the commissioner does this, he or she must state the reasons in writing and give an alternative date, time, location or route, as provided for parades in subsections (j) and (l) herein. If the public assembly organizer desires to appeal such decision, then the appeal shall be governed by the procedures set forth for parade permits in subsection (m) herein, if the notification was received in sufficient time that the appeals process could be completed before the planned date; if not, the decision by the commissioner shall be deemed a final decision subject to judicial review in accordance with applicable law. Upon request, the commissioner will provide the organizer of the public assembly with a stamped copy of the notice given under this subsection.<br />
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<b>How Does the Commissioner Decide?</b><br />
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(h) After such investigation, the commissioner shall issue a permit when he or she finds that:<br />
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(1) the proposed activity will not substantially or unnecessarily interfere with traffic in the area contiguous to the activity, or that, if the activity will substantially interfere with such traffic, that there are available at the time of the proposed activity sufficient city resources to mitigate the disruption;<br />
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(2) there are available at the time of the parade or athletic event a sufficient number of peace officers and traffic control aides to police and protect lawful participants in the activity and non-participants from traffic related hazards in light of the other demands for police protection at the time of the proposed event or activity;<br />
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(3) the concentration of persons, animals, vehicles or things at the assembly and disbanding areas and along the parade or athletic event route will not prevent proper fire and police protection or ambulance service;<br />
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<b>FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE MAY REALLY BE 7 DAYS: </b><br />
(4) “Business days” means those days in which municipal offices are open for conducting city business and does not include Saturday, Sunday or such holidays as are listed in Section 2-152-090.<br />
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<b><u>IV) STREETS: PROTEST MARCH OR RALLY WHERE STREET CLOSING IS NEEDED:</u> </b>A permit is required. In Chicago law, a “parade” “means any march, procession or other similar activity consisting of persons, animals, vehicles or things, or combination thereof, upon any public street, sidewalk, alley or other public place, which requires a street closing or otherwise requires police officers to stop or reroute vehicular traffic because the marchers will not comply with normal and usual traffic regulations or controls. “Large parade” means any parade that is held in the “central business district”, as defined in Section 9-4-010, and any parade that is anticipated to require city services exceeding $20,000.00 in value, to be adjusted for inflation in a manner specified by regulation.”<br />
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The process of getting a permit to close a street in Chicago is quite complex, and First Amendment protest activities compete with all kinds of ethnic parades, holiday parades, sporting events, as well as with all the other protest groups. Many of the bigger parades are long-standing annual events, and those groups vie for their time slots by showing up as soon as the permit office opens after the New Year. <b>If you want to close a street in Chicago so you can hold a protest, you are best to consult with a lawyer and have help in learning the application process and putting your best foot forward.</b><br />
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<b><u>V) PUBLIC PLAZAS IN CHICAGO:</u></b> People should be able to protest freely in public plazas. In Chicago, plazas in parks are controlled under parks law, which is below, and parks close at 11 pm. The non-park plazas should be available for free speech activity 24 hours a day with no reservations required, but that is not the case in Chicago. This is a big problem and is probably unconstitutional. No matter what is going on with the plazas in Chicago these days, you should still be able to protest on the public sidewalk surrounding the plazas. Also, if any area of free speech needs to be clarified asap, it is use of these public plazas. NOTE: The plaza along Michigan Avenue nicknamed "The Horse" is a park plaza, and therefore, has a closing time.<br />
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<b>CHICAGO PUBLIC PLAZAS: Chicago’s main downtown public plazas are:</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TNOKTeWXbN4/T2Q6J0H-9rI/AAAAAAAAAUg/eE5dcvNRgfU/s1600/DALEY+PLAZA+PICASSO+0095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TNOKTeWXbN4/T2Q6J0H-9rI/AAAAAAAAAUg/eE5dcvNRgfU/s1600/DALEY+PLAZA+PICASSO+0095.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daley Plaza, as seen from the west.</td></tr>
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<b>Daley Plaza</b>, <b>which is owned by the City. It is located on Washington Street between Dearborn and Clark (118 North Clark)</b>. This is the place with the Picasso sculpture. This area should be reserved for Free Speech activities by the people of Chicago, and instead is booked with “cultural programming,” every day at noon, Farmer’s Markets, events for Halloween, Oktoberfest, Christmas and on and on. A protest group should be able to at least fit itself into some corner of the plaza, or at very least, use half the public sidewalk around the perimeter.<br />
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Where are the people of Chicago supposed to go to peaceably assemble for redress of government? The City of Chicago has completely “programmed” its plazas and parks to prevent any meaningful First Amendment activity. This is most likely against the U.S. Constitution and I would like to see someone go to court on this. Better yet -- I'd like to see the City administration change this serious problem on its own accord.<br />
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The Daley Plaza now requires an application to hold a ‘rally” at the plaza. The application must go in 30-365 days in advance. Obviously, the further in advance you get it in, the more likely you are to get your desired date and time. You will need to buy insurance for any “erection or construction of displays, structures or exhibits.” If your rally <b>will not</b> do such things, you <b>do not</b> need insurance. <b>If you do not need assistance from the building staff for any equipment or electrical set-up, and if you do not require insurance, then there is no fee.</b> If you require any of those things, there is a fee of $250 for two hours, and an additional $100 for each extra hour, for a total up to $750. This is the application: <a href="http://www.thedaleycenter.com/uploads/ApplicationforPermit2.15.11.pdf">http://www.thedaleycenter.com/uploads/ApplicationforPermit2.15.11.pdf</a><br />
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<b>State of Illinois Building, James R. Thompson Center Plaza, 100 West Randolph Street. </b><a href="http://www2.illinois.gov/cms/About/JRTC/Pages/default.aspx">http://www2.illinois.gov/cms/About/JRTC/Pages/default.aspx</a> This is the State of Illinois building with a Jean Dubuffet sculpture out front. This is the Clark and Lake CTA train stop, where many train lines from all parts of the city stop. This makes it an ideal centralized location for a protest. Any protest should be able to show up at the plaza and protest in a peaceful way as long as they keep away from the windows. The Lake Street side of the building is best to avoid, because it is too narrow a space between the street and the glass windows and doors, and is where the entry to the CTA station is located. The larger area on the Randolph Street side is best for any protest rally or ceremony. To contact the building office in advance: <br />
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Wilma Wilbon<br />
Special Events Director<br />
James R. Thompson Center<br />
Chicago, IL 60601-3220<br />
Phone: 312-814-6676<br />
TDD: 312-793-3500<br />
E-mail: Wilma.Wilbon@illinois.gov<br />
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<b>Kluczynski Federal Building Plaza, 50 West Adams</b>. <a href="http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/101886">http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/101886</a> This plaza is part of the federal government and has a red steel sculpture by Alexander Calder. The plaza has a Farmer’s Market. The space is large and should be a prime location for vibrant, peaceful Free Speech Assembly. Marysia Davis is the property manager, 312-353-4475.<br />
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<b><u>VI) CHICAGO PARKS: </u></b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kW1kxZsY6rg/T2Q6nkcVmlI/AAAAAAAAAUo/qlPwpydr6To/s1600/SSPX0109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kW1kxZsY6rg/T2Q6nkcVmlI/AAAAAAAAAUo/qlPwpydr6To/s1600/SSPX0109.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cloud Gate, aka The Bean, Millennium Park, Chicago</td></tr>
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<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>MILLENNIUM PARK:</b> Millennium Park is its own little fiefdom. From the Parks law: “Millennium Park: (d) The commissioner is authorized to enter into use agreements for the temporary use of space and facilities in the Park. The commissioner shall only enter into use agreements that the commissioner determines enhance and are consistent with the unique nature of the Park, but in no event shall the commissioner discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, religion, partisan political affiliation, or viewpoint of the applicant seeking a use agreement, or on any other basis prohibited by the Constitution of the United States or the State of Illinois.” <br />
<br />
<b>Translation:</b> Millennium Park is too fancy pants for protest riff-raff. However, protesters should be able to march on one-half the width of the public sidewalk around the perimeter of the park, as long as you are not violating the sound ordinance (not using amplifiers or megaphones in violation of law) and do not have drummers, since no street performers are allowed on the sidewalk abutting Millennium Park. You might argue that these are not street performers, but if you are making loud noise on the perimeter of Millennium Park, you are most likely to be forced to leave.<br />
<br />
<b>ALL OTHER PARKS: </b><br />
<br />
<b> CLOSING TIME: </b> All Chicago parks are closed from 11 pm to 4 am. That means you have to leave by 11 pm or you are subject to arrest. In most instances, the police will give you the option to leave before you are arrested.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/assets/1/7/Permits_-_Map_-_Grant_Park.pdf">Map of GRANT PARK</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/permits-and-rentals/permit-application-process/">link to PARK DISTRICT PERMITS OFFICE</a><br />
<br />
<b><i>PERMITS NEEDED</i> FOR PROTEST IN A PARK:</b> If you plan an event with <b>50 or more people</b>, you need a park permit. A permit is also needed for <b>any use of tents</b>, to <b>reserve a specific location</b>, or to <b>use sound amplification equipment</b>. Any tent with a surface area over 240 square feet surface area must have a building permit. Tents may only be up and in use for 60 consecutive days. Where a tent is in use, there should be portable toilets also in place. There are other requirements regarding electricity and cooking near any tent. <br />
<br />
<b><i>PERMITS NOT NEEDED</i> FOR PROTEST IN PARK IF:</b> IF your protest is <b>under 50 people</b>, IF you are <b>not using tents or sound equipment</b>, and IF you are <b>flexible about location</b> in case someone else has reserved your desired spot, you should not need a park permit. HOWEVER, there is a strict closing time of 11 pm and you are subject to arrest if you do not leave by 11 pm. Keep in mind, you can always be on half the width of the public sidewalk (not the sidewalk within the park). Also, keep in mind, this does not apply to Millennium Park, which reserves its own spaces. Also, any sound you make in a park cannot interfere with any other event that got a permit to use space nearby.<br />
<br />
<b>INFORMATION FROM PARK DISTRICT SITE:</b><br />
If you are planning an event in the parks, you may need to secure a Special Event Permit in order to proceed with your event. Certain activities that require a Special Event Permit may include, but is not limited to, the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>events with 50 or more participants</li>
<li>use of amplified sound</li>
<li>any advertising or sponsorship activities, and merchandise, etc.</li>
<li>selling/distributing any food, goods or merchandise (including exercise classes/bootcamps)</li>
<li>liquor</li>
<li>tents</li>
<li>inflatables</li>
<li>stages</li>
<li>reservation of a specific location</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Please keep in mind that there are other activities or proposed event features that may require you to secure a permit. If you are unsure whether your special event will need a permit, please contact the Department of Park Services at: (312) 742-5369.<br />
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<b>CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT: Permit Application Process:</b><br />
<br />
Choose a specific park location and date for your event. (Please consult the downloadable maps on the right for lakefront locations.). You are encouraged to choose an alternative location and/or date in the event that your first choice is not available. Events of 50 or more people and those events with special features are required to secure a Special Event Permit.<br />
<br />
If you are unsure whether or not a permit is required for your event, please refer to the Park District Code or call the Department of Park Services at (312)742-5369.<br />
<br />
Please be sure to complete all sections of the Special Event Permit Application. All proposed activities and events are subject to the approval of the Park District. The Park District will not consider your submittal if the application is incomplete and does not include the $35 application fee.<br />
<br />
Submit the completed application (pages 12 through 21) and $35 application fee by email, mail, delivery in person, or fax to the Department of Park Services or appropriate Region Office. Submittal of an application does not grant you a permit or confirmation to conduct your planned event; all applications are subject to review. Completed applications with appropriate fees and requested documentation/information must be submitted at least 45 or 30 days prior to your event depending on your permit level; otherwise, late fees may apply (refer to Fees and Fee Deadlines on page 8).<br />
<br />
<b>PLEASE NOTE:</b> Only applications delivered in person will be processed on January 3, 2011 beginning at 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Applications submitted by mail, e-mail and fax, and all applications received prior to 8:00 a.m. on January 3, 2011, will not be processed until January 4, 2011. The Park District cannot guarantee that all applications received prior to January 3, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. will be processed in the order received on January 4, 2011. Furthermore, only completed applications submitted with the $35 application fee will be processed.<br />
<br />
The Park District processes applications for permits in order of receipt. The Park District will not consider your submittal without a completed application and a $35 application fee.<br />
<br />
Upon receiving your completed application and $35 application fee, the Park District will contact you within 14 days to inform you of the status of your application. You will be informed of any remaining fees that must be paid (please see Fees and Fee Deadlines, page 8), along with any additional documentation requirements. The Park District reserves the right to require additional information or documentation regarding the applicant, applicant’s company, sponsoring company/organization, cosponsors, event participants, event vendors, event activities, or the event itself. Moreover, the Park District may postpone approval of event permits until receipt of additional requested information or documentation. Failure to submit requested information or documentation in a timely manner may be cause for denial of a park permit.<br />
<br />
Applicants must submit two documents to satisfy insurance requirements. A (1) Certificate of General liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 naming the Chicago Park District as “additional insured” and the certificate holder for the date(s) of your event including set up and tear down dates. Applicants must also submit an (2) Endorsement issued by the insurance carrier. The Endorsement issued under their General Liability policy of insurance, including coverage for property damage while property is occupied by the permittee, for the event that reflects that the Chicago Park District is an additional insured for the event.<br />
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Your permit will not be issued if both the Certificate of Insurance and the Endorsement have not been received and approved 48 hours prior to an event.<br />
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Applicants are required to inform the Chicago Park District in writing of any and all amendments to the original application prior to the event day.<br />
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Once all the Park District’s requirements have been fulfilled, including receipt of all documents and full payment, a Special Event Permit will be issued.<br />
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<b>PLEASE NOTE:</b> Costs incurred promoting and marketing events prior to the issuance of an approved Special Event Permit from the Chicago Park District and changes/modifications relative to the event from the Chicago Park District and/or the Mayor’s Office of Special Events and other City of Chicago departments is at the sole expense and risk of the Event Organizer.<br />
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<b>Submit the completed Special Event Permit Application to:</b><br />
<br />
Chicago Park District<br />
Department of Park Services<br />
541 N. Fairbanks Court, 4th Floor <br />
Chicago, IL 60611<br />
<br />
Or via Fax: (312) 742-6038<br />
QUESTIONS: : (312) 742 - 5369<br />
<br />
<b>CHICAGO PARKS DO NOT ALLOW: </b>Glass containers; alcohol; intoxication; dogs, except on leash under 6 feet; open flame or cooking except where specifically allowed. <br />
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<b><u>VII) NOISE LAWS, SOUND SYSTEMS, MEGAPHONES, AND DRUMMERS: </u></b><br />
<br />
Chicago has many noise ordinances, many of which overlap. The two below seem most apt to protests. Chicago also requires all street performers to be licensed. Do drummers performing with a protest have to be licensed? The City might argue yes. I would argue it is part of the First Amendment protest, not street performance. However, there cannot be any drumming or other loud noise after 8 pm anywhere, unless there is a permit for it, as the law below states. Also, no street performance is allowed on the sidewalk abutting Millennium Park, and in some other locations. There is also no music street performing allowed on the sidewalks across from Millennium Park when a concert is about to start or during a concert at the Pritzker Pavillion. In other words, you cannot play music out on the street that may interfere with the outdoor concerts held in the park. Also, Chicago has “Quiet Zones” near hospitals, schools, and churches. Don’t drum after 8 pm or in any quiet zone. If you are told to stop drumming, you are most likely in violation of the complex and overlapping Chicago noise ordinances. See the laws below to properly plan noise for your protests. <br />
<br />
<b>NOISE BY DAY:</b><br />
<br />
Part B. Limitations on Noise from Specific Sources.<br />
<br />
11-4-2800 Music and amplified sound.<br />
<br />
(a) No person on the public way shall employ any device or instrument that creates or amplifies sound, including but not limited to any loudspeaker, bullhorn, amplifier, public address system, musical instrument, radio or device that plays recorded music, to generate any sound, for the purpose of communication or entertainment, that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of 100 feet or more, measured vertically or horizontally, from the source.<br />
<br />
(b) Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., no person on any private open space shall employ any device or instrument that creates or amplifies sound, including but not limited to any loudspeaker, bullhorn, amplifier, public address system, musical instrument, radio or device that plays recorded music, to generate any sound, for the purpose of communication or entertainment, that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of 100 feet or more from the property line of the property from which the noise is being generated.<br />
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(c) The limitations imposed in this section do not apply to a person participating in a parade, athletic event, public assembly, or outdoor special event, as defined in section 10-8-330 or 10-8-335 of this Code; provided that a permit has been issued, if required, and the person is in compliance with the permit.<br />
<br />
<b>NOISE AT NIGHT: </b><br />
<br />
Part C. Other Limitations on Noise and Vibrations.<br />
<br />
11-4-2900 Limitations on noise not otherwise addressed.<br />
<br />
For any noise source not specifically addressed in Part B of this article, except where exempted or excluded by section 11-4-2920, the following general limitations shall apply:<br />
<br />
(a) Between 8:00 P.M. and 8:00 A.M., no person shall generate any noise on the public way that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of 100 feet or more, vertically or horizontally, from the source.<br />
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(b) Between 8:00 P.M. and 8:00 A.M., no person shall generate any noise on any private open space that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of 100 feet or more, measured from the property line of the property from which the noise is being generated.<br />
<br />
(Added Coun. J. 7-26-06, p. 81473, § 1)<br />
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<b><u>VIII) CHICAGO DISORDERLY CONDUCT LAW: </u></b><br />
<br />
8-4-010 Disorderly conduct.<br />
<br />
A person commits disorderly conduct when he knowingly:<br />
<br />
(a) Does any act in such unreasonable manner as to provoke, make or aid in making a breach of peace; or<br />
<br />
(b) Does or makes any unreasonable or offensive act, utterance, gesture or display which, under the circumstances, creates a clear and present danger of a breach of peace or imminent threat of violence; or<br />
<br />
(c) Refuses or fails to cease and desist any peaceful conduct or activity likely to produce a breach of peace where there is an imminent threat of violence, and where the police have made all reasonable efforts to protect the otherwise peaceful conduct and activity, and have requested that said conduct and activity be stopped and explained the request if there be time; or<br />
<br />
(d) Fails to obey a lawful order of dispersal by a person known by him to be a peace officer under circumstances where three or more persons are committing acts of disorderly conduct in the immediate vicinity, which acts are likely to cause substantial harm or serious inconvenience, annoyance or alarm; or<br />
<br />
(e) Assembles with three or more persons for the purpose of using force or violence to disturb the public peace; or<br />
<br />
(f) Remains in the public way in a manner that blocks customer access to a commercial establishment, after being asked to clear the entrance by the person in charge of such establishment.<br />
<br />
(g) Appears in any public place manifestly under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or other drug, not therapeutically administered, to the degree that he may endanger himself or other persons or property, or annoy persons in his vicinity; or<br />
<br />
(h) Carries in a threatening or menacing manner, without authority of law, any pistol, revolver, dagger, razor, dangerous knife, stiletto, knuckles, slingshot, an object containing noxious or deleterious liquid, gas or substance or other dangerous weapon, or conceals said weapon on or about the person or vehicle; or<br />
<br />
(i) Pickets or demonstrates on a public way within 150 feet of any primary or secondary school building while the school is in session and one-half hour before the school is in session and one-half hour after the school session has been concluded, provided that this subsection does not prohibit the peaceful picketing of any school involved in a labor dispute; or<br />
<br />
(j) Pickets or demonstrates on a public way within 150 feet of any church, temple, synagogue or other place of worship while services are being conducted and one-half hour before services are to be conducted and one-half hour after services have been concluded, provided that this subsection does not prohibit the peaceful picketing of any church, temple, synagogue or other place of worship involved in a labor dispute.<br />
<br />
(k) Either: (1) knowingly approaches another person within eight feet of such person, unless such other person consents, for the purpose of passing a leaflet or handbill to, displaying a sign to, or engaging in oral protest, education, or counseling with such other person in the public way within a radius of 50 feet from any entrance door to a hospital, medical clinic or healthcare facility, or (2) by force or threat of force or by physical obstruction, intentionally injures, intimidates or interferes with or attempts to injure, intimidate or interfere with any person entering or leaving any hospital, medical clinic or healthcare facility.<br />
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A person convicted of disorderly conduct shall be fined not more than $500.00 for each offense.<br />
<br />
(Prior code § 193-1; Amend Coun. J. 3-27-02, p. 82299, § 1; Amend Coun. J. 12-4-02, p. 99931, § 5.1; Amend Coun. J. 4-9-03, p. 106396, § 1; Amend Coun. J. 7-26-06, p. 81863, § 1; Amend Coun. J. 10-17-09, p. 72710, § 1)<br />
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<b>See also:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/time-place-and-manner-restrictions-on.html">Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions on Peaceable Assembly</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/free-occupy-poster-by-aaron-kuehn.html">FREE Download - Occupy Poster by Aaron Kuehn</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/10/occupy-protest-and-first-amendment_24.html">Occupy Protests and the First Amendment</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/anonymous-vs-perf.html">Anonymous vs PERF</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/10/agents-provocateurs-what-and-who-they.html">Agents Provocateurs: What and Who They Are</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/flash-mob-protests.html">Flash Mob Protests</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/11/undercover-cops-at-occupy-protests.html">Undercover Cops at Occupy Protests</a><br />
<a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/12/fbi-infiltrators-in-protest-groups.html">FBI Infiltrators in Protest Groups</a><br />
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-21583028352978072562017-07-02T10:00:00.000-07:002017-07-03T11:58:49.167-07:00Who are Julian Assange, Wikileaks, Bradley Manning, Jeremy Hammond, NATO3, Barrett Brown, and Why You Should Care<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-314eUc8-wp0/UPkAhiG07OI/AAAAAAAAArU/6PU8OlYZqcY/s1600/Julian+Assange+and+Free+Jeremy+Hammond.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-314eUc8-wp0/UPkAhiG07OI/AAAAAAAAArU/6PU8OlYZqcY/s320/Julian+Assange+and+Free+Jeremy+Hammond.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julian Assange at the Ecuadoran Embassy<br />
in London with "Free Jeremy Hammond" sign. </td></tr>
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<b>Who are Julian Assange, WikiLeaks, Bradley Manning,</b></div>
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<b> Jeremy Hammond, NATO3, Barrett Brown, and Why You Should Care </b></div>
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by Sue Basko<br />
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<b>Update July 2017 and Recap: </b>The Iraq Collateral Damage is posted anew below. The other one had been removed by Youtube. Please watch and listen to the video below to understand about this war crime. This is the video that was freed to the public by Bradley (Chelsea) Manning and Wikileaks. Additional updates since 2013 are that Bradley Manning is now called Chelsea Manning and has been freed from prison on order of former President Barack Obama. Jeremy Hammond was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Barrett Brown was sent to prison on a plea deal. While in prison, he wrote magazine articles and won a prestigious writing award. He is now out of prison and writing a book. Julian Assange is still living in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and there is said to be a secret indictment against him in the U.S.</div>
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<b>UPDATED January 13, 2013</b> - to add Barrett Brown and his indictment for posting a link to materials allegedly hacked from Stratfor.</div>
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<b>UPDATED June 19, 2012 - </b>Julian Assange is apparently in the care of the Ecuadorian Embassy as an asylum seeker.</div>
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<b>UPDATED June 16, 2012 </b>to explain UK Supreme Court refusal to reopen and possibly move to Court of Human Rights.</div>
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<b>UPDATED MAY 30, 2012 t</b>o explain the May 30 UK Supreme Court ruling in London.<br />
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People close to Julian Assange have asked me to try to help spread the word about his situation. I have found that most people don’t seem to know who Julian is or why they should care. I will explain the connections of the main players and the very basics:</div>
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Julian Assange is an Australian journalist, internet activist, and programmer. He founded WikiLeaks, a ground-breaking website that publishes documents, often documents obtained by hackers or classified documents obtained by other means. The documents show truth of what our governments are doing. The mission is to give people truth and transparency about their governments.</div>
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Bradley Manning is a U.S. Army soldier. He was working as a computer analyst. There was an absolutely horrific war crime committed by U.S. soldiers against civilians in Iraq. Iraq is the nation in the Middle East that the U.S. invaded in 1990 and then again in 2003. </div>
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The war crime can be seen in the video below on this page. PLEASE WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW. The video is of a gunner in a helicopter over an Iraq suburb claiming that people on the ground are armed with AK-47s and shooting, and he asks to “engage” them, meaning kill them. In fact, there are no AK-47s or anything that looks like an AK-47. There are two men carrying camera bags that look like camera bags. They were photographers. After all those people were shot, a family in a van drives up and tries to assist them, and they are also killed. </div>
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The motive of the soldiers in this horrific killing have never been publicly revealed. Was the gunner hallucinating? Was he on drugs? Was he suffering from PTSD that made him so fearful of a camera bag that he would kill many people? Or was it malice? His laughter and enjoyment and blatant lies make this look like malice and a war crime.</div>
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Bradley Manning, the U.S. Army computer analyst, allegedly put the video, encrypted, onto a CD labeled “Lady Gaga songs,” and sent it to WikiLeaks. Anonymous, the hacker collective, allegedly decrypted the video, and WikiLeaks posted it on its website. </div>
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The revelation of these shocking killings from a helicopter led to a hasty end to the war in Iraq. However, instead of prosecuting the soldier who lied and killed all these people, or admit the U.S. had no business waging war in Iraq, the U.S., in particular U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, focused their attack on Julian Assange and Bradley Manning. </div>
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Bradley Manning is on trial in a Court Martial procedure. He has been held in solitary confinement in torture conditions for two years as of this writing. </div>
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Julian Assange has been on house arrest in the UK. The U.S. is trying to extradite Julian Assange to Sweden and then to the U.S. to make him answer for a secret indictment. Please note that the extradition to Sweden is not for any crimes, but for questioning in two rape allegations, which are situations where the women have stated the FBI questioned them in manipulative ways and they disagree with rape charges against Mr. Assange. Mr. Assange has stated he has agreed to be questioned over the phone, which is allowed under Swedish law, but this has not been done. Likely, if he is extradited to Sweden, he will then be extradited on to the U.S. to face a secret indictment that awaits him, which is explained below. It has been reported, as if May 30, 2012, that U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will arrive in Sweden on June 4, presumably to take custody of Mr. Assange. Other reports state the U.S. FBI has been questioning Europeans over the past few weeks, trying to build a case against Mr. Assange. <b>(Update June 19, 2012 Julian Assange is apparently in the care of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, seeking asylum, and potentially planning travel to Ecuador.)</b><br />
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The decision whether to allow extradition to Sweden was made by the UK Supreme Court early this morning (May 30, 2012) in London. The Court voted to allow extradition of Mr. Assange to Sweden, stating that their current rules do not allow them to consider the charges against Mr. Assange, but merely must give authority to a European Judicial Authority, the Swedish prosecutor. After the ruling, Mr. Assange's lawyer stated to the Court that their ruling was made upon referral to the Vienna Convention, which was not argued by either side in Court, and therefore, she asked for 14 days to apply to reopen the case. <br />
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<b>UPDATE June 16, 2012:</b> That appeal was denied, with the UK Supreme Court refusing to reopen the case, thus opening the way for Mr. Assange to be extradited to Sweden However, Mr. Assange's barrister plans to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. I think there is a chance they could rule in his favor, as he has not been charged with any crime and has been held on house arrest for well over a year. (<b>Update:</b> After these rulings, Mr. Assange took refuge in the Ecuadorean Embassy in London and has been there since.)</div>
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Jeremy Hammond, a 27 year old hacker and political activist from Chicago, allegedly hacked the website and emails of Stratfor, a private company in Texas that is allegedly hired out by the U.S. to commit spying acts against U.S. citizens in violation of the official U.S. Department of Justice rules on infiltration in citizen groups. (You can download those rules <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/12/fbi-infiltrators-in-protest-groups.html">HERE</a>) Jeremy Hammond is a young man who hacked on a laptop in his little house in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood that he shared with many young activists. Jeremy Hammond is likely the world’s most gifted and proficient hacker, and his list of alleged hacks is extensive and impressive. His work was politically motivated.</div>
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The hacked emails from Stratfor revealed that Stratfor spies had been hired to infiltrate Occupy camps and groups. The emails also revealed that a secret Grand Jury had been convened and a secret indictment against Julian Assange exists. </div>
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Jeremy Hammond (Anarchaos), founder of the hacker training website called <i>Hack This Site</i>, was arrested after being outed by Sabu, whose real name is Hector Monsegur, a relatively unskilled hacker with the group LulzSec. Sabu, an unemployed father of two living in public housing in New York City, was arrested and quickly turned FBI informant. While under FBI control, Sabu was doing low level hacks, tweeting hints that he had turned, and engaged in entrapping his online compatriots by urging them to “work with” him on various politically meaningless hacks. The FBI raided Jeremy Hammond’s Chicago house and arrested him. Mr. Hammond was extradited to New York, where he was jailed and where after a few months, a larger indictment was brought against him. He faces trial or a deal. Mr. Hammond is being held without bond in a New York facility.</div>
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Before he was arrested, Jeremy Hammond was involved in planning protests for NATO and G8. As the NATO Summit neared in Chicago, the FBI conducted a campaign of harassment against NATO protesters and journalists. Infiltrators were placed to entrap protesters from out of town, staying in Bridgeport, in a scheme to produce molotov cocktails, a form of bottle bomb that explodes on impact when tossed. These charges appear to be pure entrapment. The 3 men charged have been nicknamed the NATO3. It has been reported that the FBI was involved in the entrapment of the NATO3, admitted there was no case, and then the prosecution was taken over by the desperate-to-impress Cook County State’s Attorney, Anita Alvarez. The case is being prosecuted under the <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/05/illlinois-terrorism-law.html">Illinois Terrorism Law</a>, which is so broad it is surely unconstitutional. Let’s wait and watch – the first step for the lawyers representing the NATO3 should be to challenge this ridiculously broad law. See this post on <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/05/how-to-avoid-entrapment.html">ILLINOIS ENTRAPMENT</a> and this on <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/05/illlinois-terrorism-law.html">ILLINOIS TERRORISM LAW</a>. (You can read about the petty harassing police work against the NATO3 at <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2012/05/bridgeport-cops-and-occupiers.html">Bridgeport Cops vs The Occupiers</a>.)</div>
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IF YOU or your friends were harassed while in Chicago for NATO, keep in mind the mechanism that harassed you is the same mechanism that is holding Bradley Manning captive for telling the truth. It is the same mechanism that is trying to extradite Julian Assange and put him on trial – for revealing the truth about horrific war crimes. If you had your door kicked in or had guns pointed at you during Chicago NATO, please keep in mind you are victim of the same mechanism that is punishing Bradley Manning and Julian Assange and Jeremy Hammond. You are part of the anti-war movement and/or part of the quest to reveal truth.</div>
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War crimes should be revealed, and if it took Bradley Manning, Julian Assange and Wikileaks to reveal this one, that is what it took. The U.S. should stop tormenting these brave men for showing us the truth. And the U.S. has no business delegating spy duties to a private company such as Stratfor. In fact, the U.S. has no business spying on its citizens.</div>
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<b>IF YOU WANT TO SHOW SUPPORT</b> for Julian Assange and/or Bradley Manning, you can tweet to <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/statedept">@StateDept</a></b> which is the twitter account for the U.S. State Department and of U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. You can attend rallies or spread the word. Truth is important, and these brave men brought us truth.<br />
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<b> UPDATE January 13, 2013:</b> Now we add to the list: Barrett Brown, a journalist who sometimes spoke to the press about Anonymous, the hacker non-group. On December 4, 2012, Barrett Brown, who was already in a Texas jail awaiting trial on federal charges related to internet threats against an FBI officer who was involved in raiding his home months earlier and who refused to return Mr. Brown's computer, was indicted for allegedly posting a link to a cache of materials from the Stratfor hack, which was allegedly conducted by Jeremy Hammond at the urging of Sabu/ Hector Monsegur. Allegedly, there were a few credit card numbers located within the cache of materials that Barrett Brown linked to on his Project PM website. Project PM is a collective journalism resource, but federal indictments against Mr. Brown make it sound like a terrorism activity. Perhaps that is how the U.S. government now views journalism. This indictment stretches the posting of a single link to 12 criminal counts. To my knowledge, a link has never been construed as a crime, let alone a single link as 12 crimes. This bizarrely overreaching prosecutorial conduct would be laughable, except that it is very real and Barrett faces many years in prison. <br />
READ: <a href="http://subliminalridge.blogspot.com/2012/12/barrett-brown-charged-with-posting-link.html">BARRETT BROWN CHARGED WITH POSTING A LINK</a>.<br />
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Video from July 12, 2007, suburb in Iraq</div>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-42505449684244144362017-01-28T13:39:00.000-08:002018-04-16T14:57:04.550-07:00Punch a Nazi?? 10 Reasons Why Not<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vkhAAtEZmws/WI-yRX8hj1I/AAAAAAAAA6g/-wuBuB6HKBsoEntj9Rv4WkNONoDYpUA3gCLcB/s1600/TexturesCom_MetalVarious0081_1_S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vkhAAtEZmws/WI-yRX8hj1I/AAAAAAAAA6g/-wuBuB6HKBsoEntj9Rv4WkNONoDYpUA3gCLcB/s200/TexturesCom_MetalVarious0081_1_S.jpg" width="177" /></a></div>
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<b>Punch a Nazi?? 10 Reasons Why Not</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.<br />
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See also: <a href="https://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/counter-protesters-or-counter.html">Counter-Protests and Counter-Demonstrators</a></div>
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There's a recent fad topic about <i>Punching a Nazi.</i> This topic started when a man was speaking with a journalist at a protest and another man, wearing a dark hoodie, ran up and punched the man in the face. The internet gossip line soon identified the man who was punched, labeled him a "Nazi," and said the person who punched him did it as some form of protest against his ideas. The words "antifa" and "diversity of tactics" got tossed around. An alleged partial quote from the man, taken out of context and with no sourcing, was offered as validation or justification that he "deserved" to be punched.</div>
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I am here to tell you this is all nonsensical and not to be involved with punching anyone, no matter what you think of their ideas. </div>
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<b>Here are 10 Reasons Why You Should Not "Punch a Nazi":</b></div>
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1) A protest or any public event is a delicate balance where it can easily become violent and dangerous. If you are constructive, you want to keep any public gathering safe for all. If you are there causing trouble, the vast majority of other participants are wise enough to not want you there. They see you as a troublemaker and a thug, not as a noble hero or dashing masked man. </div>
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2) We are adults. We realize that people have viewpoints that differ from ours. We don't run through the streets punching people for having different viewpoints. Do you want to be punched for having your viewpoints?</div>
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3) The people or groups who are advocating violence against those who hold different opinions call themselves "antifascists." They are so hyped up in their own nonsense that they don't see the irony of this. The people wearing masks and punching people for holding different views are actually fascists. When they run through the streets attacking people, they instill fear and silence people. That sort of violence + fear + silencing = what fascism is all about.</div>
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4) The argument of the pro-punchers is that if a person holds a view that they find repugnant, that this justifies physically attacking the person. It is beyond my ken how anyone could have lived such an isolated, parochial life that they do not realize that everyone holds different views, and that a great many people hold views that others find repugnant or even shocking. In a pluralistic society, people get to hold such views, but are not allowed to physically harm or attack others. If the person you call a "Nazi" has made a direct threat to harm you immediately and is armed and ready to do so, then you get out of the way and call the police. If you are running up to people on the street and punching them, then <b><i>you</i></b> are the one that is antisocial and a criminal.</div>
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5) A big part of growing up is realizing that many others do not agree with us, but that we can live and let live. We do not need to control everyone's thoughts. We don't get to hit them because they have ideas with which we disagree. Even if we think their ideas are appalling or repugnant, we don't get to physically attack them. They have the right to hold their views and to walk on the streets unassailed.</div>
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6) It is a crime to punch someone, whether or not you disagree with their ideas. It is a crime to advocate violence, such as urging others to attack people on the street.</div>
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7) If you punch or attack a person, you are legally responsible for everything that happens to them. If the person has a heart attack or stroke, you are legally responsible. If the person gets a blood clot and dies, you are responsible. In a <b><a href="http://www.loopnorth.com/news/marques0130.htm" target="_blank">recent non-protest street incident in Chicago</a></b>, a man punched another man in the head. The man who was punched fell into the street and was run over by a taxi and died. The man who punched the man is possibly being charged with murder. When you engage in a criminal attack upon another person, you are responsible for the whole chain of events that follows. You cannot accurately predict what that chain of events might be. Your motive in harming the person is usually considered enough motive for whatever ensues.</div>
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8) Normal civilized adults do not run around the streets punching people. Do you know who stands on street corners attacking people they think disagree with them? The Taliban. In the U.S., we respect the right of every person to walk on the street and not be attacked. </div>
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9) If you start justifying or engaging in violence against people because you disagree with their ideas, it is a very short, very slippery slope to where you may allow yourself to become a full-fledged criminal, or in your eyes - a martyr. Examples of people who have attacked others based on their beliefs include: Dylann Roof, who killed 9 Black people in a Christian Church because he thought it would start a race war; Timothy McVeigh, who exploded a federal building, killing 168 and injuring 600, because he disagreed with the actions of the ATF at an incident at Waco, Texas; the many acts of murder, arson, kidnappings, and bombings against abortion providers engaged in by people who find abortion immoral or repugnant; and many other such incidents. The logic behind these incidents is the same as the logic behind "Punch a Nazi": the untrue notion that you can control the flow of ideas by attacking or terrorizing those who hold those ideas. </div>
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10) Engaging in the "Punch a Nazi" nonsense means you are frittering away your time and energy on this negative, anti-social activity, when you could be engaged in productive, intelligent change. Worse still, if you get arrested and tossed in jail for punching someone on the street or for advocating such violence, you will have managed to make yourself socially neutralized. And that is just plain stupid.<br />
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-48436100240174520842016-11-12T12:05:00.001-08:002016-11-27T23:33:25.034-08:00Questions about Protests <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Questions about Protests</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq</div>
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I was just looking at the Google Queries that led people to this blog today. These include the following questions, which I will answer. I am taking the <b>google search queries</b> exactly at they were written: </div>
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<b>how long do protesters go to jail </b><br />
Protesting is legal in the United States. It is our right under the Constitution. The vast majority of people that participate in protests do not get arrested. Some people do get arrested at protests, usually for such things as blocking traffic, trespassing, or property damage. It is also possible to be arrested at a protest for no reason other than being targeted by the police. In most cases, those who are arrested are let out after a few hours or within a day. Sometimes they are charged with a crime and sometimes they are not. If they are charged with a crime, then they are usually given a date to go to Court. If a person was arrested at a protest for something more serious, such as breaking windows or starting something on fire, then they will probably be held and should go before a judge within a couple of days to set bail. If a person is arrested and has an outstanding warrant from something that happened before, they will usually have to be in jail until they can clear up that warrant. That has been known to take weeks. If you know you have an outstanding warrant, then you should probably avoid going to a protest or being arrested. <br />
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KEEP IN MIND that many people who are arrested at protests are doing so intentionally as a form of CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE. They intentionally break the law because they want to be arrested as a form of protest. If you do not want to get arrested and if people start talking about "Civil Disobedience," then avoid participating with them since their <b><i>goal</i></b> is to be arrested. Don't be swayed or coerced by what they say. If you don't want to be arrested, do not participate in activities that are geared to get you arrested. A lot of people leading such activities fail to plan for or take care of those they have caused to be arrested. <br />
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<b>how long does it take to get a permit in nyc to have a protest</b><br />
I don't know, but in most cases, you do not need a permit to hold a protest. If you keep the protest in a public space, such as a plaza, or on the public sidewalk, you don't need a permit. Applying for a permit in other cities I do know about can take months. That all makes no sense since the thing you are protesting about will most likely be over before a city gives you a permit. If you are planning a really big protest tied to a future event, then it makes sense to apply for a permit. International law says that cities are supposed to accommodate the rights to freedom of assembly and freedom of speech, even if this inconveniences others.<br />
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<b>can fbi search a computer if not listed on search list</b><br />
The FBI is supposed to have a search warrant before it can search a computer. Ask to see a warrant and read it carefully. As you note, the search warrant has a list of places to be searched and items to be seized. If the computer is not on the list, then it is not supposed to be searched or seized (taken). If the FBI doesn't have a valid search warrant that lists the computer, then any evidence they find on the computer might be suppressed as being gotten without a lawful search warrant. <br />
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HOWEVER, if you <b>give permission</b> to the FBI or to any other police agency to search your computer or to search anything, then you are forfeiting your rights and protections. Never give permission to allow any police or agency to search anything. If police or an agent ask you "Do you mind if we look?," the answer is, "Yes, I do mind. No, I do not give my permission for any type of search." I know of an instance where law enforcement agents asked to search and seize computers during a swat -- a false emergency call to the police. If asked for permission, say no.<br />
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<b>chicago protest permit</b><br />
In Chicago, you do not need a permit to protest unless you are in locations where a permit is required to gather a large group, or if you plan to block the street. Even then, international law standards say that if a protest is large, it should be allowed in the street. See the article on this blog about <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2011/10/where-you-can-protest-in-chicago-and.html">Where You Can Protest in Chicago</a>. Getting a permit in Chicago is a lengthy process and should be reserved for times when you are planning well into the future. If you are just holding a simple protest -- go out and do it. If you want it to be legal, keep it to the public sidewalks and publicly-owned plazas.<br />
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<b>do protesters have to have a permit to march on streets</b><br />
To march on the sidewalk, you do not need a permit. To march in the street, you do need a permit in most cities. HOWEVER, the international law standard says that the police should accommodate a large protest and let them march in the streets. If a protest blocks traffic, often there will be arrests. Something may be the "right" of a protest, but that does not mean protesters won't be arrested. If there is a big group, sometimes police will follow the international law guidelines and accommodate the protest so it can be held on the street. Not always, though, so you need to gauge what is happening and listen to instructions if you want to avoid being arrested.<br />
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<b>do you need a permit to protest</b><br />
No, Protest does not require a permit if you keep it on the sidewalks or in a publicly-owned plaza.<br />
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<b>do you need permits to protest in california</b><br />
No, see answers above.<br />
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<b>find a place to protest</b><br />
You can protest on a public sidewalk or in a publicly-owned plaza. Look where others in your area have successfully run protests and use that same space.<br />
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<b>how long do you sit in jail protesting</b><br />
Most protesters do not get arrested. Of the few that are arrested, most are released within a few hours. A very few will be kept up to 2 days, if they are facing charges and need to go before a judge to set bail. If a protester has an outstanding warrant for their arrest from something that happened before, they might be kept until the warrant is cleared up, which can take weeks. <br />
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<b>how much does a protest permit cost</b><br />
A protest permit should be free. You don't need a permit if you keep your protest on a public sidewalk or in a publicly-owned plaza. If you are running a big protest for a specific event and you do want to get a permit, there is usually no cost in most cities -- but a city might insist on such things as insurance, porta-potties, etc. International standards state that a city should bear the cost of policing and should not require insurance. If your protest is just a rally or march held on short notice in public spaces and on public sidewalks, then you will be doing that without a permit. Sometimes a big protest is also held without a permit. If there are many people and they do not all fit on the sidewalk, sometimes it will be held in the street, even without a permit.<br />
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<b>why are people being arrested for protesting</b><br />
Protesting is legal, so the vast majority of protesters do not get arrested. Sometimes protesters do get arrested. Sometimes the arrests are targeted by police who are looking to harass the people they perceive as leaders. Sometimes police act crazy at a protest and engage in what are almost random kidnappings of people. But that is pretty rare and more confined to cities where the police are poorly trained. But it does happen, so it is good to be aware of. AND. . .<br />
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<b>Other than that, the main reasons protesters get arrested are:</b><br />
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<li>Being in the street when they've been told by police to get out of the street.</li>
<li>Blocking traffic or blockading a roadway.</li>
<li>Sitting in traffic or in the street.</li>
<li>Writing on anything with spray paint or markers.</li>
<li>Carrying any fire-creating device such as fireworks or a road flare, or using one to start fire.</li>
<li>Causing any damage to property or people.</li>
<li>Climbing on any vehicle. Rocking or tipping any vehicle.</li>
<li> Harassing or menacing other people walking, in shops, in cars, etc.</li>
<li>Trespassing onto private property.</li>
<li>Blocking an entry, exit, elevator, public transportation, etc.</li>
<li>Not following police orders during the protest.</li>
<li>Possessing a bottle bomb, bat, gun, knife, etc.</li>
<li>Throwing anything.</li>
<li>Not leaving if the police have announced it is an UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY. Once the police call this, then anyone that stays can be arrested.</li>
<li>Not leaving if police announce it is a RIOT. Once the police call it a RIOT, then they can also announce that everyone there is "Under arrest."</li>
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-22960779467457644342016-11-08T21:59:00.001-08:002016-11-09T08:18:22.264-08:00Deray sued by Cop for Incitement: Far-Fetched<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Deray McKesson</td></tr>
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<b>Deray sued by Cop for Incitement: Far-Fetched</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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<i><b>Tuesday, November 9, 2016.</b></i> Yesterday afternoon, a lawsuit was filed against Deray McKesson of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement by an unnamed police officer from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The police officer claims that the BLM activist, popularly known as Deray, incited violence during a protest in Baton Rouge. The officer was injured by a man who threw a rock or piece of concrete at his face. The officer does not claim that Deray played any part in the rock throwing, nor does he name any words spoken by Deray that allegedly would cause the other man to throw the stone. Nor does he claim that Deray ever spoke with the man who threw the rock. Rather, he claims that Deray was present at the protest, he is a BLM leader, and that he was speaking with others at the protest. The officer claims that Deray was "ordering" others. The officer also sued Black Lives Matter, which is not an organization, but a movement of people nationwide in protest of police killings of Black people. You can read about the lawsuit against Deray in this <b><a href="http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/11/8/1593156/-Baton-Rouge-cop-sues-Black-Lives-Matter-activist-for-riot-that-injured-him" target="_blank">article in the Daily Kos</a>. </b>There is some sort of affiliation of BLM chapters, but Deray's group does not belong to it. Rather, he is a founder of a group called Campaign Zero, which seeks to end police violence by collecting data and strategically affecting Use of Force policies and police union contracts.<br />
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Deray was arrested at the protest in Baton Rouge, as seen on video live streamed by both himself and his friends. At the time, Deray was walking in a legal space along the side of a road. From the video, there was nothing discernable as being illegal in Deray's actions. He was simply walking along in a protest with his friends, when he was set upon and dragged off. Several days after the arrests, Baton Rouge announced it would not be charging about half of those arrested, including Deray. Such arrests still severely chill rights by making people less likely to participate in protests, which is their legal right as forms of freedom of assembly and freedom of speech.<br />
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Deray and a group of others filed a federal class action lawsuit against the Baton Rouge saying the police violated the civil rights of the protesters by acted in a militarized and aggressive manner toward them. You can read about this <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/aug/04/deray-mckesson-lawsuit-baton-rouge-black-lives-matter" target="_blank"><b>here in the Guardian</b></a>.<br />
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This lawsuit by the Baton Rouge police officer is highly unusual in several ways: First, if any incitement to violence had taken place, it would be a crime that could be prosecuted, and not usually handled as a private action tort, or lawsuit. Second, it is very unusual for a police officer to sue someone as an unnamed John Doe. Third, "incitement to violence" requires words that are an imminent call to violence, and in this case, no such words have been alleged. It is not even alleged that Deray ever spoke to the man who threw the stone. The known words of Deray that are heard on video have Deray stating that the protesters had been peaceful and the police had not been. It is very far-fetched that such words could be considered incitement, aside from it being even more far-fetched that the man throwing the stone even heard the words. Fourth, neither Deray nor his group called the protest. It would be extremely unusual to try to hold Deray responsible for what happened at the protest.<br />
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In any protest group or other gathering, there can be people who either come to cause trouble or get caught up in the moment. Each person is responsible for their own behavior. Incitement involves an exhortation or urging to imminent violent action. There simply is no known evidence that any such thing happened at the Baton Rouge protest. <br />
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The lawsuit against Deray also claims he did not try to calm down the protesters. However, from Deray's perspective, it was the police who were out of control, overly aggressive, militarized, and acting inappropriately toward peaceful protesters. From the videos, it looks as if Deray was simply trying to keep himself and his closest friends out of harm's way. <br />
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What makes this lawsuit even more far-fetched is the nature of Deray himself. For the past month or so, I have been blessed with being granted a coveted spot at seminars run by Deray at the University of Chicago Institute of Politics. I've had the opportunity to hear and learn from Deray, to meet and listen to his closest associates in Campaign Zero and the Black Lives Matter movement. There is no way on earth Deray incited anyone to violence. I'd describe Deray as highly intelligent, well-spoken, calm, funny, slight nerdy, friendly, busy, practical. I could picture him participating in a spelling bee or a math contest, not in a gun battle.<br />
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When Deray was arrested, he seemed surprised, so much so that naysayers online claimed it was staged. Nope, he was just a goody two shoes walking along, shocked to be arrested and hauled off for no particular reason. The wide-eyed "deer in the headlights" look in the pics of him being arrested is genuine. Deray's response to the lawsuit against him has been that he hopes the Baton Rouge Police will return his bookbag. <br />
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Deray's associates from the BLM movement are strikingly brilliant and filled with hope and ideas. One such is Sam Sinyangwe, who gathers and charts data on police department Use of Force policies and killings by police. Another is Brittany Packnett, a graduate of the prestigious George Washington University in St. Louis, who trains educators as her full-time job and volunteers to help raise awareness for the Black Lives Matter movement. Anyone who is hoping to find swaggering tough-talking throwbacks to the 1960 radical days will be surprised that the BLM movement is run by top-tier graduates of prestigious schools, with perfect diction, poise, grace, seemingly boundless natural energy, positive enthusiasm, and a strong dose of humor. There is much good-natured laughter in our seminars.<br />
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Deray was formerly a 6th grade math teacher at a Baltimore public school with violence problems. Just yesterday, Deray stated that he he disagreed with many people and thought there should be police in schools, or at least in schools with problems of violence. But he does not think police should be handcuffing kids and taking them to the office, but rather than they should be on hand for incidents of violence. This does not sound like a man who would incite someone to toss a rock at another human.<br />
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If the Baton Rouge police officer suing Deray is hoping to pose Deray as a tough talking bad guy, he's got quite a surprise coming. It is too far-fetched.<br />
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-82680982236916166322016-11-06T23:05:00.000-08:002020-06-03T21:20:59.017-07:00How to Run a Protest - Basics<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>How to Run a Protest - Basics</b></div>
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By Susan Basko, esq.</div>
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<b>See Also:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/counter-protesters-or-counter.html">Counter-Protesters and Counter-Demonstrators</a><br />
<b>See Also:</b> <a href="http://occupypeace.blogspot.com/2018/04/high-school-protest-rights.html">High School Protest Rights</a><br />
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At least once a week, I get a query from someone wanting to run their first protest. There's a lot of protests happening these days. That's a good thing, since it means people worldwide are exercising their rights to seek redress of grievances by calling public attention to the matter. The basic list I am giving here is for the U.S. Please understand that what is legal in the U.S. may not be so elsewhere. In fact, in some nations, protesters have been put to death. This is also a reminder that if you are in the U.S., to cherish and value our rights to protest. If you see a protest, rather than think of it as an annoyance, think of it as a refreshing and valuable exercise of our U.S. Constitution. Even if you don't agree with the protesters, be proud of the freedom that gives them the right to protest.</div>
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<b>HOW TO RUN A PROTEST:</b></div>
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<b>1. CHOOSE YOUR TOPIC. </b>Your protest must have a topic. The protest can be for something, against something, or generally educational or rallying. Some topics can be wide: for example, against racism, against police brutality, for reproductive rights. Or a topic can be narrow: a protest because a particular police officer was not indicted for police brutality, a protest against a particular expansion of a pipeline, etc. </div>
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<b>2. CHOOSE YOUR FORMAT. </b> There are many kinds of formats for protests, including a march, a rally, camping in tents, a sit-in or holding a space, attending a public meeting and possibly raising a ruckus, street theater such as performance, a flash mob of singing or dancing, projection of pictures or video, holding a group bike ride, candlelight vigil, etc. Some protest formats are low commitment, such as a rally and march, and some are high commitment, such as camping, a sit-in, or holding a space.</div>
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The most common forms of protest are a rally and a march. A rally takes place in one large public location, such as park or plaza. A march moves as a line or parade along a sidewalk or street.</div>
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<b>3. PICK A LOCATION. </b> PERMITS: THE GENERAL RULES. In most locations in the U.S., the general rule is that you do not need a permit to protest, unless you are going to be blocking the street or interfering with pedestrian, car, or bike traffic. </div>
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The other general rule is that it is legal to hold a protest in a PUBLIC space such as a government plaza or park, unless it is specifically designated as being for some other purpose such as art displays or music concerts. The PUBLIC sidewalk is a legal place to hold a protest march, but you must leave enough space for others who also want to use the sidewalk. Conversely, it is generally illegal to hold a protest on PRIVATE property. Some examples of private property are a shopping mall or a private plaza or private sidewalk. </div>
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If you want to close down the street and want to do it legally, you need a permit. If that is your plan, you are best to get a local lawyer to assist you. Many will do this for free. (<b>NOTE</b>: International law states that if a protest is spontaneous in reaction to current events, and if there is a mass of people, then they should be allowed to fill the streets. Police are supposed to facilitate the right of a large group to fill the streets in such a situation.)</div>
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For a BASIC protest, let's say you are going to meet in a public location and then go on a sidewalk march. Let's say you expect a group of anywhere from 20 to 200 people to attend.</div>
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Try to pick a location that relates to the topic of the protest or to the intended audience. For example, if you want to show your support or disapproval of a certain act of government, you may want to stand with signs by the side of a busy road during rush hour and ask people to honk their car horns in agreement. If you want to protest something the federal government is doing, show up at a federal plaza or building. If you want to protest what a mayor is doing, protest at City Hall. If you don't like what a certain company is doing, protest outside their headquarters or nearby location. If no location is applicable or convenient, then pick any general public plaza or sidewalk. </div>
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<b>4. SET YOUR DATE AND TIME. </b> Most cities, when giving permits for a protest, allot time slots of 2 hours. If this is your first protest, stick to the 2-hour window. That keeps it compact and manageable. As you get more experienced and have a group you can trust, you can move on to more elaborate plans. Even if you are running your protest without a permit because you do not need one to hold a protest on the public way, it is still a good idea to limit your protest to 2 hours total, including gathering and clean-up afterwards. More people will show up for a protest that has a specific time slot they can plan for around their jobs, classes, child care, transportation, etc.</div>
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Choose the date, day of the week, and time slot when your people can attend. For a successful first protest, it is best to choose a time when students and workers can attend without problems, which is usually after school or work or on a weekend. Check what is happening at the place you plan to hold the protest. For example, if you plan to hold your protest in a city plaza, but if at that same time there will be a band concert or a holiday event in the plaza, you are best off choosing a different time or place. </div>
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<b>5. NOISE: </b>When setting your date and time, be sure you are not interfering with religious services that are held near your chosen location. In many cities, it is illegal to make noise outside a place of religious worship during services. It may also be illegal to hold a noisy protest near a hospital, school, or nursing home. It is also illegal to interfere with a clinic or with patients or medical personnel coming and going.</div>
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<b>6. FORMAT/ SCHEDULE.</b> You have chosen your topic, your format, your place, your date and 2-hour time slot. Now, figure out how you will spend your 2 hours. Usually this will be divided into gathering, holding the protest, and breaking up/ clean-up. The typical events include people holding signs, speakers, chants, singing, music, dance, drumming.<br />
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One of the most effective protests I ever saw was a simple march down a sidewalk in a very busy area in a major city, where each of the marchers held a yellow helium-filled balloon on a string. They had a drummer. They had a few signs to explain what they were protesting. They had information people to talk with the public. They also had printed flyers they would hand to people who showed an interest. </div>
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<b>7. GATHER YOUR GROUP.</b> Publicity. Commitment. Dividing Responsibility.<br />
AND THEN .. HOLD YOUR PROTEST.<br />
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<b> 8. CLEAN UP. </b> Be sure to allot time to <b>CLEAN UP</b> afterwards. Leave the space cleaner than you found it. Pick up and remove all signs, flyers, water bottles, and all other items. Do not leave any mess. Bring some big trash bags with you, make sure everything gets into them. And then find a proper place to dispose of the trash bags. It may seem like you are leaving an altar or reminder of your protest by leaving your signs displayed in a park or street, but when the wind comes, you have left a big mess. Just clean it all up and be proud of making no mess.</div>
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<b>9. WILL YOU BE ARRESTED? </b> The main thing that gets protesters arrested is blocking the streets. It is as simple, and as complicated, as that. See other posts here for more info. In large cities, there are many protests each day, and most of them are held with no trouble at all. </div>
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Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-80521063574208115722014-08-19T15:00:00.001-07:002014-08-19T15:00:32.939-07:00Ferguson big DONATIONS list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Ferguson big DONATIONS list</b></div>
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You can donate to the people in Ferguson, Missouri in many ways. This list is re-blogged from:</div>
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<a href="http://breed7910.wordpress.com/2014/08/16/campaigns-for-mikebrown-ferguson/">http://breed7910.wordpress.com/2014/08/16/campaigns-for-mikebrown-ferguson/</a></div>
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Here is a list of donations, protests, and petitions that you can do to help the people in #Ferguson and to assist #MikeBrown and #EzellFord all others who have been killed by the hands of the police. I will try to update as much as possible.</div>
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Michael Brown Memorial Fund:</div>
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These funds will assist his family with costs that they will acquire as they seek justice on Michael’s behalf. All funds will be given to the Michael Brown family.</div>
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<a href="http://www.gofundme.com/justiceformikebrown">http://www.gofundme.com/justiceformikebrown</a></div>
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College 4 MikeBrown’s Siblings:</div>
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This effort will help support Mike Brown’s siblings, 2 younger sisters and a younger brother go to college. It is run by Sara Goldrick-Rab, UW professor of the Wisconsin HOPE Lab (<a href="http://www.wihopelab.com/">http://www.wihopelab.com</a>) and Michael Johnson of the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County (Madison, WI) can vouch that all funds will go directly to the family.</div>
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<a href="http://www.gofundme.com/d1rprk">http://www.gofundme.com/d1rprk</a></div>
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Jail support info for those who are arrested at Mike Brown rallies in Ferguson.</div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/organizemo/status/499671321643454464/photo/1">https://twitter.com/organizemo/status/499671321643454464/photo/1</a></div>
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Bail and Legal Fund for Those Arrested During Ferguson Anti-Police Demonstrations:<br />A bail and legal fund has been established to support people who have been arrested during the anti-police demonstrations in Ferguson, Mo. If you have a friend or family member who was arrested, please email us their name at antistatestl@riseup.net</div>
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<a href="http://antistatestl.noblogs.org/post/2014/08/11/bail-and-legal-fund-for-those-arrested-during-ferguson-anti-police-demonstrations/">http://antistatestl.noblogs.org/post/2014/08/11/bail-and-legal-fund-for-those-arrested-during-ferguson-anti-police-demonstrations/</a></div>
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#OperationHelpOrHush:</div>
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Donations to Protestors in Ferguson to provide food and other supplies. All monies will go directly to purchase those items. This is for PAYPAL DONATIONS ONLY: SadittyCooks@gmail.com</div>
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<a href="http://pic.twitter.com/ctApKXoTdm">pic.twitter.com/ctApKXoTdm</a></div>
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The also have tshirts available all proceeds will go to fund this campaign.</div>
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<a href="http://teespring.com/operationhelporhush1">http://teespring.com/operationhelporhush1</a></div>
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They are looking for medical and mental health professionals, counselors, as well as community organizers to go to Ferguson to assist those who are in that area. Also if you are willing to donate sky miles or buddy passes please contact: Please use this email address for volunteer services ONLY: ophelporhush@gmail.com</div>
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There is also an amazon wish list set up to help children receive school supplies in Ferguson. This list is SEPARATE from the wish list that is set up for protestors:</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/2MUPOSAUM13TA/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_ws_RRT8tb01ARVJH">http://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/2MUPOSAUM13TA/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_ws_RRT8tb01ARVJH</a></div>
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Amazon Gift List:</div>
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These items are being directly shipped to St. Louis, MO to assist protestors who are on the frontline in Ferguson. It includes toiletries, items to help in clean up the area, food etc. You can also send notes in the some of the packages shipped.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/registry/giftlist/T5SQYC5B5IJZ">http://www.amazon.com/registry/giftlist/T5SQYC5B5IJZ</a></div>
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Feed the students of Ferguson:</div>
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This fund was originally set up to feed the students who go to school in Ferguson who were to start school on August 14th. Many students in Ferguson rely on meals provided in school, and the delay in the start of classes means that many of the children will not eat.</div>
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<a href="https://fundly.com/feed-the-students-of-ferguson#updates/blog/look_what_we_did-18296">https://fundly.com/feed-the-students-of-ferguson#updates/blog/look_what_we_did-18296</a></div>
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*Jennings students still needing free lunch or any mental services can contact their school directly for more assistance* Referenced: <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/article_c2435462-d3e4-59f6-9edd-2ae6b5cfe438.html">http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/article_c2435462-d3e4-59f6-9edd-2ae6b5cfe438.html</a></div>
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St. Stephen’s Food Pantry</div>
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The help distribute food to those in need and currently due to the situation going on in Ferguson they were looted and those goods go to needy families in that area. They need boxed meals such as Hamburger Helper and lots of toiletries. Donations are now being accepted on their website: <a href="http://saint-stephens.info/collaboration/our-community-the-vine/food-pantry/">http://saint-stephens.info/collaboration/our-community-the-vine/food-pantry/</a></div>
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Here is the contact info for shipping items:</div>
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St. Stephen’s Food Pantry</div>
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33 N Clay Ave Ferguson, MO 63135</div>
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Ph: 314-521-0138</div>
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St. Louis Business Journal has created a list resource list for those who also need assistance in their community. There list will also be updated as they collect more information. Please click link: <a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/morning_call/2014/08/as-unrest-continues-in-ferguson-volunteers.html?ana=twt">http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/morning_call/2014/08/as-unrest-continues-in-ferguson-volunteers.html?ana=twt</a></div>
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St. Louis Urban League: <a href="http://www.ulstl.com/" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">http://www.ulstl.com/</a></div>
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They are accepting donations for school supplies for the children in Ferguson and collecting non-perishable food items. Here is the 2014-2015 school supply list for the Ferguson/Florissant School District: <a href="http://www.fergflor.org/pages/Ferguson-Florissant_SD/Parents/6725006080717623026">http://www.fergflor.org/pages/Ferguson-Florissant_SD/Parents/6725006080717623026</a></div>
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Please call 314-615-3668 for more questions.</div>
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If you wish to donate items to STL Urban League please ship them to:</div>
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ATTN: Barbara Bowman</div>
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Urban League Metropolitan of St. Louis</div>
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3701 Grandel Square</div>
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St. Louis, MO 63108</div>
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<strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Petitions:</strong></div>
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Petition for Federal Laws to Protect Citizens from Police Violence and Misconduct</div>
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<a href="https://www.change.org/p/president-barack-obama-please-enact-new-federal-laws-to-protect-citizens-from-police-violence-and-misconduct" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.change.org/p/president-barack-obama-please-enact-new-federal-laws-to-protect-citizens-from-police-violence-and-misconduct</a></div>
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Mike Brown Law. Requires all state, county, and local police to wear a camera:</div>
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A petition for a Mike Brown Law is asking to be created because to the latest accounts of deadly encounters with police. That law will set aside funds to require all state, county, and local police, to wear a camera.</div>
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<a href="https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/mike-brown-law-requires-all-state-county-and-local-police-wear-camera/8tlS5czf" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/mike-brown-law-requires-all-state-county-and-local-police-wear-camera/8tlS5czf</a></div>
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Petition to remove Bob McCulloch from any grand jury proceedings in regards to the Micheal Brown investigation. Find information about it here:<a href="https://www.change.org/p/judge-maura-please-recuse-biased-prosecutor-bob-mcculloch-2?recruiter=37856323&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=share_twitter_mobile" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.change.org/p/judge-maura-please-recuse-biased-prosecutor-bob-mcculloch-2?recruiter=37856323&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=share_twitter_mobile</a></div>
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Don’t Shoot MO Campaign</div>
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Please review website for more information:</div>
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<a href="http://www.dontshootmo.com/" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">http://www.dontshootmo.com/</a></div>
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<strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Protests:</strong></div>
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<strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Other Pertinent Info:</strong></div>
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Know Your Rights: Demonstrations and Protests<br /><a href="https://www.aclu.org/free-speech/know-your-rights-demonstrations-and-protests" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.aclu.org/free-speech/know-your-rights-demonstrations-and-protests</a></div>
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#Ferguson Support Collection:</div>
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This was a google doc that was created that has information on crisis counseling for those affected by the happenings in Ferguson, ustreams of live protests, legal support, etc.</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FCv_FQyhMoHa3rk9MRmQ2uGCkgkF3WrsmMffPlgHKsY/edit#gid=0" rel="nofollow" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FCv_FQyhMoHa3rk9MRmQ2uGCkgkF3WrsmMffPlgHKsY/edit#gid=0</a></div>
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United Way of St. Louis has crisis support services that are available to those affected by the tragic events in <strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a class="twitter-hashtag pretty-link js-nav" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ferguson?src=hash" sl-processed="1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #53a1b8; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><s style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">#</s>Ferguson</a></strong>. To find help, please call 2-1-1 or 1-800-427-4626.</div>
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Students from Walnut Grove Elem can come to the Ferguson Library where a few teachers have activities set up for their students from 9am to 4pm. Please refer to the website for more info: <span class="ProfileHeaderCard-urlText u-dir" dir="ltr" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://ferguson.lib.mo.us/">ferguson.lib.mo.us</a></span></div>
Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1994120573245293089.post-86617316888426162052014-05-03T10:26:00.001-07:002014-05-03T10:51:21.720-07:00How Cointelpro Works<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>How Cointelpro Works</b></div>
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by Susan Basko, Esq.</div>
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The other day, a true troll lawyer who is suing "half the people on the internet" posted a link to a cointelpro-created blog article that is supposed to cause people to think ill of me. The article, which is several years old, is a classic example of cointelpro. In this age of the internet, cointelpro smear pieces have lasting power. <br />
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The cointelpro smear piece against me emanates from early Occupy Los Angeles and keeps being revived by the cointelpro agents and their dupes. Before the OccupyLA camp started, there were planning meet-ups. Some of my family and friends were involved, and I gave some legal advice, such as to get porta-potties and that it is legal to sleep at night on the sidewalks in Los Angeles. After the OccupyLA camp got situated in the park by City Hall, it soon was infiltrated by paid agents. Some of those agents formed a group that was supposedly more radical. This is a common technique to draw in the fringe elements and often, to entrap them. That supposed radical group was engaging in hardcore smear campaigns against many of the people who were doing the most positive work in running the camp, the media, and the finances. I was quietly advising many of the people who were being smeared by this supposed radical group. The supposed radical group had (and still has) a tumblr that is used to attack others, in typical cointelpro fashion.<br />
<br />
Now watch how cointelpro works: One day, I was doing some trademark work and I noticed that 2 different people had applied for trademarks on the Occupy LA name. One was an application by a person who was trying to "own" the OccupyLA name for himself as an organization and the other was trying to own the name for commercial products. I thought it was important for the OccupyLA group to retain its own name and trademarks and not allow ownership of the name to be usurped by individuals looking to make a profit.<br />
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I emailed my findings about the trademark applications to the editor of the OccupyLA website, for which I wrote many articles. The editor asked me to put it in writing what could be done about the trademark applications and to list how much it would cost to deal with it. I wrote him a simple explanation of the range of possibilities: I could keep an eye on the situation and wait and see if the two trademark applications that were pending made any progress and report back to him as any changes took place, and this would cost nothing. I could mount challenges to the two trademark applications by writing and filing letters and this would cost whatever the fee was for that, with my time donated. The most aggressive tact would be to challenge the pending applications as well as to file trademark applications for the main real OccupyLA group, in the same categories that were in the pending applications. The government filing fee on each category is $300. So while I was willing to donate a good chunk of my time, this aggressive proposal would still cost a few thousand dollars. Depending on the available budget, the group could choose the wait-and-see approach, the aggressive approach, or somewhere in between.<br />
<br />
The editor of the OccupyLA site forwarded my emailed report to a few people, among them at least one of the cointelpro agents in the supposed radical group. Soon, this person was creating a fantasy that I was greedy, that I was hoping to be paid "big money" that increased with each time he wrote the smear story. First it was $1000, then $3000, then $10,000. And the smears became outlandish.<br />
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When one is dealing with cointelpro agents, there is no dealing. If you tell cointelpro agents that the thing they are saying is untrue, they simply create more lies. I had been watching for months as these same cointelpro agents worked hard to chase off the most productive people at OccupyLA. The victims of the cointelpro smear campaigns were concerned for their reputations, and rightly so. I too, was concerned for my reputation. I knew the cointelpro agents who were working OccupyLA were fierce, highly trained at disinfo campaigns, at stopping productivity, and at causing rifts and divisions. <br />
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The same cointelpro tumblr and twitter account are still up and running and still maintained by obvious cointelpro agents. They still post links to their smear articles to try to harm the reputations of the people who helped productively with OccupyLA.<br />
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The reality is that I gave many hours to the people of OccupyLA and continue to give free legal advice and assistance to those who ask. This happens behind the scenes. The other reality is that while the camp was going, I was the one steering in many of the donations. Donations were money, food, water, tents, blankets, clothing. I never asked anything of OccupyLA, but rather, offered to assist with the trademark situation and told what the costs would be. <br />
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The important thing to understand is that cointelpro agents weave their fantasies to scare off productive people, to create divisions, create confusion or fear, all to stop societal change from taking place.<br />
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Here is an interesting catch: Whenever I see this ludicrous cointelpro article claiming I somehow tried to make money by helping OccupyLA, I know that the person posting it is in touch with or working with the cointelpro agents. Or the cointelpro agents see an ill-informed dupe and send them a link to their defamatory smear piece. That's because any of the real people who actually helped with OccupyLA also had this same bunch write a smear piece on them. Or many smear pieces. <br />
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Last I checked, new smear pieces were still being created by these same cointelpro operatives. One of the agents often uses twitter to post a short, outlandish smear. I saw one where he posted saying a man I know was a rapist. Just that. A 140 character tweet with no further info, just labeling a very good, kind man a rapist. <br />
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There is little to nothing that can be done about cointelpro agents, other than to make people aware of what is going on, make them aware of the presence and work of the agents, and to gather the good, productive people into a safety net for each other. Understanding the mechanisms of cointelpro and disinfo campaigns is important when trying to build a community or movement. The powers that be very much want to control the people, the events, and the outcome. Challenges to the status quo, challenges to have a better, happier, more fair society are frightening to those whose livelihood or luxury depend on quashing new ways of thinking and being.<br />
<br />
So, when a person copies, quotes, or links to any of the cointelpro-created smear articles, this is a sure way to tell the person is either a cointelpro agent, a dupe, a fool, or just very naive and new to protest.<br />
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<br />Occupy Peacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599034575520986997noreply@blogger.com