Protesters get night, day in court
By Patti Thorn, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published August 25, 2008 at 10:31 p.m.
Updated August 26, 2008 at 8:38 a.m.
Tim Hussin © The Rocky
Denver surround, mace and detain protesters at 15th and Court.
Video powered by Flickr
Photo by Marie Griffin © The Rocky
Protesters are circled by swat teams on 15th street at 7:30p. on Aug. 25, 2008.
Photo by Brian Lehmann © The Rocky
Police surround a group of protesters after an impromptu demonstration near Civic Center Park on 15th street Monday night.
Photo by Tillie Fong, the Rocky
Protesters consult with attorneys at DNC court early Tuesday morning.
A day of relative quiet that had observers wondering what happened to the large demonstrations expected in Denver this week turned violent Monday night as police fired pepper balls and pepper spray at protesters.
Police dressed in riot gear and wearing gas masks clashed with scores of people who refused to leave a one-block stretch of 15th Street near Civic Center Park.
the Denver Police Department and Denver Sheriff Department reported this morning that approximately 100 people were arrested. No serious injuries were reported. Protesters were taken to DNC court, where proceedings started after midnight and were still going into the early morning hours.
The event started in Civic Center around 7 p.m. as protesters gathered for an unpermitted event designed to "Disrupt the DNC," as a series of anarchist protests organized by Unconventional Denver have been labeled.
Attendees were told by organizers to "come ready for quick, decentralized actions spanning the downtown area at a variety of risk levels."
It was unclear what prompted police to react so strongly. A spokesman with the Joint Information Center, a clearing house for convention-related security information, said the protesters were causing traffic and pedestrian disturbances.
"The whole mob was running down the street, pulling on trees," said Jeff Cheney, 26, of Denver, who was walking his dog when the incident began. "I think the cops acted as necessary."
But many protesters disagreed. "It was a very peaceful little march," said protester Honey Traiman, 55. "They (police) came from every side."
Observers said a small group of marchers outside the City and County Building on Bannock Street linked arm-in-arm and advanced on a line of police clad in riot gear before the skirmish.
"As we approached the police ... they moved up and sprayed us," said Amanda Hubbard, 31, of Denver, who was on the front line. "I got hit square in the eyes."
After police fired the pepper spray, protesters fled across the park and onto 15th Street. There, dozens of police officers boxed the group into the block between Cleveland Avenue and Court Place. Caught in the police snare, some marchers sat down in the street, prompting officers to begin detaining people.
The sounds of chanting rang out, as a helicopter circled above. "Freedom!" shouted a group leader. "Freedom!" retorted the crowd.
Their cries were interspersed with shouts of: "Let them go! Let them go!" Some called police "Nazis" and "pigs." One protester took out his anger on reporters, proposing that all "yuppie journalists" move out of the way.
While some offered water to journalists and protesters who had been sprayed by officers and many coughed in the haze, others appeared to be enjoying the skirmish. "F--- the war! We want war! F--- the war!" a few skipping teens chanted, clearly excited at the prospect of a riot.
About 350 people were initially detained, said Barbara Spagnuolo, wife of protest group re-create 68 co-founder Glenn Spagnuolo, who helped negotiate the release of most of those protesters.
But after agreeing to let those detainees leave, police began arresting and processing dozens who remained in the street. Reports of the number varied — from as few as 35 to as many as 70.
By 9 p.m., the scene at Civic Center Park was relatively quiet, except for the sound of music, as a band played in the park. Bystanders remained, watching the scene in the street.
Earlier in the day, observers had remarked on the lack of drama and low protest turnout so far this week.
Some observers estimated that as few as 1,000 protesters have come from out of town. Low turnout for prior marches even prompted authorities to reopen some downtown traffic lanes by noon Monday, rather than the planned time of 3 p.m.
Even the evening's protest that resulted in the arrests was small, compared to the tens of thousands of people organizers had predicted would show up.
Michael Heaney, a professor of political science at the University of Florida, who is in Denver to do a comparative study of the delegates and protesters at the Democratic and Republican conventions, theorized early in the day that an atmosphere of fear permeated pre-convention rhetoric, discouraging turnout.
"I think it's a combination of three reasons," he said of the lower numbers. "One, I would blame re-create 68 itself."
The group's symbol of a clenched fist and its name, calling to mind the violence of the 1968 Democratic National Convention, didn't help. Neither did the media's and city government's reaction to the group's stance.
Finally, "the third reason is that people are not that unhappy with Obama," Heaney said.
By evening's end, it was hard not to wonder if the low turnout had suddenly become irrelevant.
"I was scared for my rights," said a man who identified himself only as Mario, 24. He was one of the first protesters to be released. "This (stuff) isn't over. They (ticked) a lot of people off."
The Rocky's Tillie Fong contributed to this report.
August 25, 2008
11:20 p.m.
duboisb writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
August 25, 2008
11:42 p.m.
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drill_here_drill_now writes:
I actually had to look up the word “phalanx” because that is not a word we hear everyday. The word was used twice in one paragraph, which intrigued me. Here is the definition from one of my favorite sources Wikipedia, and I quote: “The phalanx (plural phalanxes or phalanges) is a rectangular mass military formation, usually composed entirely of heavy infantry armed with spears, pikes, or similar weapons.” That is brilliant. But I did not see any spears, pikes or similar weapons. And I am not sure that the heavy infantry were in a rectangular formation. It was more like a one sided hexagon. I hope those people who were taken away enjoy their stay in Denver and leave ASAP.
August 25, 2008
11:42 p.m.
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EZBakeOven writes:
Headline: "Demonstrations turn violent at night"
Come on! Violent? Pepper spray is irritating but not over the top. It's called crowd control and if you don't like it then stay at home.
August 25, 2008
11:45 p.m.
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Eagle_in_NYC writes:
Brown shirts always attack those they disagree with. Beat them down and drive them away. Worked for the National Socialist German Workers Party, worked for the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, it worked for the Khmer Roughe, it works for ZANU-PF, and it works for the street socialists and anarchists. For each and every socialist iteration.
Look at what they did to the Fox News reporter who just wanted to ask the disgraced, fired, former college instructor, Ward Churchill:
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/vide...
Bonus question: George Soros bought Barack Obama, but is he still paying for the street anarchists too? Or is that why there are so few street anarchists? Because there really isn’t any ideological space between the Democrat candidate and them.
Soros bought Barack Obama because he is the most liberal senator with a National Journal rating of 95.5%. And even Uncle Joe Biden came in third with a 94.2%. Thus making both of them more liberal than even the avowed socialist, Bernie Sanders (93.7%).
http://nj.nationaljournal.com/voterat...
August 26, 2008
12:12 a.m.
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LadyBird112 writes:
Is it just me, or are they arresting a little old man in the pic on the homepage? He's a scary one, alright. I'm so glad that the frightening old men are being taken off the street.
August 26, 2008
12:12 a.m.
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LuvAmerica writes:
"Brown shirts always attack those they disagree with. Beat them down and drive them away. Worked for the National Socialist German Workers Party, worked for the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, it worked for the Khmer Roughe, it works for ZANU-PF, and it works for the street socialists and anarchists. For each and every socialist iteration."
I'm sure Denver PD will be flattered by your comparing them to the Brownshirts.
August 26, 2008
12:19 a.m.
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navymom writes:
Here, here, LadyBird. He's really dangerous isn't he.
August 26, 2008
12:31 a.m.
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EZBakeOven writes:
They detained the little old man, then let him go. They detained lots of people and released them.
August 26, 2008
12:42 a.m.
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LadyBird112 writes:
Yes Navy. I think I will have nightmares about him.
August 26, 2008
12:57 a.m.
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ksells writes:
Brown shirts were fascists that attacked the legal authority of the government on behalf of the Nazi party. Their biggest moment was the night of the crystal glass. To its credit, the DPD didn't allow it to happen today. It's one thing to peacefully protest (although I can't figure out why they would protest Democrats for the war), but to plan on confrontation with the police is a result of the planners vanity. The stupid protesters shouldn't be arrested, the planners should be. And the charge should be a felony. There's no excuse to recreate the riots in Chicago!
No McBush in '08.
August 26, 2008
2:07 a.m.
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adrian writes:
"Congress shall make no law... abridging... the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Nowhere in any reports that I've read about this incident has anyone said anything about any of the protestors using violence, or destroying anyone's personal property.
When I hear people say things like "Pepper spray is irritating but not over the top. It's called crowd control and if you don't like it then stay at home" and "I hope those people who were taken away enjoy their stay in Denver and leave ASAP," I ask myself what exactly caused us to get to the point, in this country that was supposedly founded on ideals of freedom and democracy, where protests are reflexively met with violence, and where police pepper-spraying nonviolent protestors is viewed by many people as an acceptable response.
Yes, many of these people are anarchists. But, in my opinion, a society shouldn't be judged by how much freedom it grants to flag-waving soccer moms; it should be judged by how much freedom it grants to those with whom it disagrees the most.
If the people who wrote the First Amendment saw Denver police pepper-spraying and arresting nonviolent protestors, and fencing them into "freedom zones," what do you think they would have to say to us?
August 26, 2008
2:27 a.m.
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watcher1 writes:
I think the main photo says it all.
Nothing like a group of armored, gun-toting and whatever-else-they've got, "men", ready and willing to gas & beat kids on Washington and Wall Street's behalf.
Beautiful. Just beautiful.
August 26, 2008
2:33 a.m.
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ksells writes:
Adrian, I think you forget the term "non-violent". If you forced me aside, that would not be non-violent. The fact that the person is a police officer isn't a "get out of jail free card". Free speech doesn't mean saying that the use of violence then justifies what you have to say. And it doesn't mean that after saying it that if the crowd doesn't buy into it that you can attack anyone who doesn't agree. No, you are wrong. If you put your arm on me in protest because I didn't agree with you, you are guilty of assault. And it doesn't matter if that arm is a police officer.
No McBush '08
August 26, 2008
2:52 a.m.
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ksells writes:
Correction, I meant to say if the assault was on a police officer by this rabble, it didn't make a difference if it was on you and me, not that the DPD assaulted anyone. I think the DPD did a good job.
No McBush '08
August 26, 2008
3:25 a.m.
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cpeterson writes:
Recreate 68 - failure!
Tent State - failure!
If these groups had been a baseball team they would have fired the manager and dumped payroll before the trade deadline.
August 26, 2008
4:16 a.m.
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ColetteDD2 writes:
"The whole mob was running down the street, pulling on trees,"
The above quote tells the whole story. This was a pre-fabbed stunt designed to provoke the police into action and then claim police brutality and/or civil rights violations. They got a fraction of the media attention trained on the convention and so achieved a small victory.
Dissent and protest are two sacred rights of democracy, no question. Substance and manner greatly influence whether and how many other citizens will join with the protesters. Zero substance and sub-zero stupidity equals this half baked/half assed incident.
I'd say what were they thinking but no thinking was evident.
Colette, Denver, CO
August 26, 2008
5:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
solar_satellite writes:
Had the DPD simply allowed the marchers to walk up 15th Street there would have been far less obstruction of it than was caused by their decision to arrest 100 people there, which was supposedly motivated by the DPD's determination to prevent the marchers from even temporarily obstructing 15th Street. 15th Street was closed for hours. Legal observers documented that the DPD did not declare the march an illegal assembly and order marchers to disperse before macing them. Chief Whitman not only defies Denver's Law (Sec. 38-176 of the Municipal Code), he is incompetent; call his office and urge him to resign (call the police non-emergency number, 720-913-2000; ask for his office. You'll have to leave a message, the Chief is hiding out in the secret command bunker, aka the basement of the City-County Building). The City would like there to be some significant number of arrests to justify all the money received for security ($50,000,000; at present we've spent about $500,000 per arrest), so more such idiotic and overbearing enforcement may be expected.
August 26, 2008
5:30 a.m.
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RockyMountainLies writes:
"Demonstrators turned violent"
Um, this is clearly just a plain lie. The Rocky Mountain News doesn't have any reporting to back up this claim, except someone saying that they saw people "pulling on trees." If they had any actual indication that someone was violent, then it would have been a juicy bit in the article, like the violent cop spraying the protesters.
It's as though the cops used violent force, so the Rocky Mountain News just announces that the protesters were violent.
OK, Rocky. How were the protesters violent? Do you have any actual proof? Or are you just saying this to apologize for the police? Or to sell papers?
Even this morning, looking at the charges being handed down to the protesters, none of them are being charged with violent actions.
This is simply biased, disgusting lies by this third-rate paper. It's editors should be sued for libel.
August 26, 2008
5:41 a.m.
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DeimosJB writes:
The sheer idiocy of it all. My favorite comment was from the 31 yr old woman, who was apparently flabbergasted that by joining a mass of people and advancing en masse on police, she would be pepper-sprayed.
August 26, 2008
5:46 a.m.
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HolierThanThou writes:
Take what the Rocky writes about this stuff with a grain of salt. They repeat the police verbatim while giving other witnesses short shrift.
The cops built Gitmo-on-the-Platte and are looking for any excuse to stuff it full of people. A hundred or so people walking down the street is no different than what happens when the Light Rail train lets out a load of commuters in the morning.
The only difference is what the police do. The police are assaulting people and provoking violent confrontations.
August 26, 2008
6 a.m.
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yaakovwatkins writes:
The "the right of the people peaceably to assemble," is not carte blanche to violate the law. Their stated goal of disrupting the DNC was illegal. "Attendees were told by organizers to 'come ready for quick, decentralized actions spanning the downtown area at a variety of risk levels." Blocking the street is illegal. Disruptive behavior is illegal. Vandalizing trees is illegal.
The idea that these people's right of free speech is being abridged is nonsense. There will be hundreds of reporters from all over the world hanging on their every word this morning.
The police are protecting the rights of citizens, and keeping the peace, rather than doing the politically correct thing which would be to wait for the fight to start and referee the planned altercation between delegates and protesters.
August 26, 2008
6:01 a.m.
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HolierThanThou writes:
I'd like to award the cops in the photo the chicken-cross medal for bravery. Wow! Brave, brave cops! Macing the be-Jesus out of that little woman. What courage! I'm sure she weighs all of ninety pounds. And check out her martial arts moves as she clings desperately to the guy with her eyes crammed shut.
It takes real guts to abuse little women like that. Those big tough cops must really be having a good time showing off their bravery. Congratulations, boys! Them's some real macho moves you got there!
August 26, 2008
6:25 a.m.
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bluecollarbytes writes:
Lets be clear about something. It's the "recreaters" who are looking for confrontation, arrest, mace, "police abuse", video clips, and stories of "What I Did On My Summer Vacation". The Cops are simply doing the job citizens expect them to do-preserve the peace, lives and property.
August 26, 2008
6:44 a.m.
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pete10000ft writes:
looking good Denver PD...looking real good...the whole world is watching.
August 26, 2008
7 a.m.
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Sensible writes:
those idjuts sure do make a lot of noise with the hankies wrapped around their faces...
August 26, 2008
7 a.m.
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AvidLiberal writes:
I have not used any logic yet!
August 26, 2008
7:01 a.m.
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kmeissner writes:
What did the trees do to you? Don't pull on them. They didn't start the war! Stop violence against trees! haha
August 26, 2008
7:04 a.m.
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leftwingbuttplug writes:
Come on guys you have to better then this, where are the radical queens at ? Girl friends show them how its done with 2 snaps up. Oh yeah dont forget lots of dexatrim and red bull will help you out please dont disappoint the original hippies
August 26, 2008
7:19 a.m.
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PRAYFORTHEKIDS writes:
How many times do they have to say "STAY BACK"? I think they should only have to say it once. "STAY BACK" means "STAY BACK"
When I say "NO" to my kids I will only say it once.
Pepper spray the dumb**sses.
August 26, 2008
7:27 a.m.
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HollyGoLightly writes:
I'm inclined to wonder if a few violent folks tried to stir the pot just to get some action going. Some of these people have no interest in the message of whatever protest is going on, they just want to see some violence. Throw in a few of those types and things are going to get ugly.
August 26, 2008
7:34 a.m.
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snuffalupagus writes:
These people are nothing but freaking parasites!!!
August 26, 2008
7:45 a.m.
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AvidLiberal writes:
Please don't hurt the trees, trees are people too.
August 26, 2008
7:53 a.m.
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Dick_Tater writes:
After watching some of the video and reading the comments, all I can say is go DPD! Getting pepper sprayed is nothing. Wash your eyes, call your parents and you'll be back to smoking dope with your friends in no time. At least now you can say you did something with your life other than score 1 million points on guitar hero.
August 26, 2008
7:57 a.m.
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SirRealist writes:
"pulling on trees"
BLOODY HELL!!! The pulling on trees MUST be stopped at all costs. One can only imagine what would be next.
August 26, 2008
7:58 a.m.
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peterverkooijen writes:
This is such a stupid game. I'm ashamed to admit I've participated in this kind of nonsense in Amsterdam in the Netherlands when I was in my late teens.
Here's how it works. You bring a lot of people together. Then you try to provoke the police to act by doing something silly, like sit in the middle of the road or try to enter restricted areas.
Pushing, shoving and shouting starts. Riot gear comes out. Mayhem ensues. All good fun.
The point of the exercise is that at the end you can accuse the police of gestapo tactics. The press gets pictures of "peaceful demonstrators", cute 19-year old hippie girls, harmless little old men, getting beat up or pepper sprayed by police.
And these days we all get cool video we can post on YouTube!
It's all an old socialist/fascist tactic. Mass demonstrations, flag waving, picking fights with police, street power, they're the same tactics the national socialist brownshirts used.
And if they get their wish in recreating '68 they'll get a martyr out of it so they can go write their own Horst Wessel Lied.
August 26, 2008
8 a.m.
Suggest removal
Fred writes:
I would assume the cops have at least one undercover working within re-create. So they know the intentions of the "march".
In addition....If I'm standing a line (as the cops were) and a group of people decided to March over our line arms locked.... Mace would be a GIFT. Try and over run me when I'm given and order to stand a line. See what happens.
I’m usually the first to criticize cops (particularly Denver cops) for their lack of professionalism and seeming eagerness to shoot unarmed people.
That being said….Recreate has asked for a platter of pepper spray with a side of bruises and I’m happy that the police are willing to oblige.
Someone make sure to tell the stupid protestors if you mess with a buffalo it might stomp you. I know it seems obvious to most…but these protesters aren’t exactly showing their intelligence.
August 26, 2008
8:09 a.m.
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WhadUsay writes:
ksells: crystalnacht was not "night of the crystal glass" it was "night of the broken glass". Please get your history right before twisting it to your own personal needs. I knew someone who lived through that horrible event - he died this week. I think he would be highly offended that you liken that event to any that happens in this country. Shame on you.
August 26, 2008
8:16 a.m.
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WhadUsay writes:
This was an unpermited event. These people have known from the start that they needed a permit to hold any event of this size in Denver. If they can't follow simple rules - well, too bad for them. Besides "organized anarchists" is an oxymoron.
August 26, 2008
8:17 a.m.
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Miss_Kitty_Kat_Girl writes:
HolierThanThou writes:
I'd like to award the cops in the photo the chicken-cross medal for bravery. Wow! Brave, brave cops! Macing the be-Jesus out of that little woman. What courage! I'm sure she weighs all of ninety pounds. And check out her martial arts moves as she clings desperately to the guy with her eyes crammed shut.
It takes real guts to abuse little women like that. Those big tough cops must really be having a good time showing off their bravery. Congratulations, boys! Them's some real macho moves you got there!
===============================
And I'd like to award the organizers of this particular protest march the same award for their bravery and smart, intelligent thinking in regards to putting "little women" on the outskirts of such protest marches! Smart thinking and no different than a human shield. Real macho move they got there.
August 26, 2008
8:23 a.m.
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FlyfishDude52 writes:
All the good posts since this article showed last night! Impressive, but weak.
So the $64,000 question... What were they protesting? From media sources, DPD sources and citizen eye witness reports; nothing. Protesting nothing. Just to instigate a confrontation with the police? Wow! My guess is there were a few "plants" doing nothing but trying to incite a riot. Good job. Real good job!
To the protesters: Please have an issue when you begin your protests. Failing this the protester police will be fining you for lack of content... Wait. That should be happening to the rmn.
Granted the DPD is, in a very small way, trying to justify all the training, dollars and temporary facilities that have been set up. If this isn't justified soon after the convention is over and no serious riots have ensued, there will be massive finger-pointing at hick & his cronies for the wasted $50,000,000, or is it more than that. With absolutely nothing to show for it. Who got to line their pockets???
Clearly, there isn't going to be 10,000 or more protesters showing up for the party. Who perpetrated that number?
August 26, 2008
8:24 a.m.
Rallyracer7 writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
August 26, 2008
8:25 a.m.
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Cowboy63 writes:
1. These "protesters" really have nothing to protest about. They have a better life than any other society in the history of the world. The fact that the cops detained - then released them says it all. In China, they would have disappeared.
What is it about these kids that makes them feel so oppressed when they are actually the most coddled generation that ever lived?
2. I just have to laugh at all the bandanas around the faces. What is this? Cops and Robbers? Do you really think that is going to stop a cop from grabbing you if you get out of line?
3. Where all the opression from "The Man"? A little pepper spray and a few hour detention hardly rates a comparison to "Brown Shirts". Nobody is being dragged out of their houses. This is simply the police keeping order in the streets. It is the protesters who have made the CHOICE to actively seek out confrontation. If anyone should be compared to "Brown Shirts"; it is the Recreate '68 crowd themselves.
August 26, 2008
8:33 a.m.
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Support_your_Officers writes:
I have read these for too long and never responded but I must break my silence.
Peaceful protests are those in which the law is not broken. Yes, these people have a right to protest and I support that. They DO NOT have the right to go out into the street and obstruct traffic. At that point, it is called Disturbing the Peace. What about the rights of people to drive on the streets and not worry about a mob of people in the middle of the street? It is apparent there are a few instigators in these groups that urge others to break the law. With all of the cameras around, does anyone truly believe the Police are only going to use excessive force? They are doing what is necessary to uphold the law, protect the LAW ABIDING citizens and serving the LAW ABIDING public. The last time I checked, THAT IS THEIR JOB and they are doing GREAT. What about the picture yesterday of the protestor screaming at one of the officers an inch from his face shield? Is he a peaceful, law abiding citizen? He was attempting to get a reaction out of the officer and didn’t. As it states in the article…. They joined arms and advanced on the Police. They also put bandanas over their faces so it is obvious they were expecting to be sprayed. Why would they be carrying bandanas to protect their faces from OC if they did not have the intention of doing something illegal? Does anyone truly believe the Police should or would back down?? Someone else believes the Police should have just let them march down the middle of the street… OK and then what is the next law they are “allowed” to break?? How far will it go?
SMART ONES:
Snuffalupagus, HollyGoLightly, PRAYFORTHEKIDS, pete10000ft, luecollarbytes, yaakovwatkins, DeimosJB, ksells, EZBakeOven, Dick_Tater, Rallyracer7, Cowboy63
NOT SO SMART:
HolierThanThou, KaySieverding, RockyMountainLies, solar_satellite, AmaranthArticia, watcher1, Eagle_in_NYC
August 26, 2008
8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
Fisherman writes:
The protesters shout "freedom" while suppressing the freedom of others. Send them all to Georgia to protest the Russian occupation or to Russia to protest the occupation by Georgia of Russian claimed territories. After all, to them what difference does it make?
August 26, 2008
9:02 a.m.
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csatswra writes:
I would see pictures of piece of crap third world nations in news papers of demonstrators/ protestors challenging police and or military to the point where it appears that we are living under martial law. I thought what an awful, discusting place to live. Hmm... Apparently I live there now.
August 26, 2008
9:12 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Really, csatswra? How does this compare at all? Which part of this is disgusting to you? The actions of the protesters or the law enforcement trying to enforce the law and protects others, as well as themselves? I would sure hate to be outnumbered like that and have no idea what the protesters have under their sleeves (literally).
August 26, 2008
9:20 a.m.
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FlyfishDude52 writes:
csatswra - Go join them in one of those third world countries cause you, clearly, don't support the American dream.
The DPD, acted with commendable restraint until the protesters started breaking the law. Their job is to enforce domestic tranquility within the constraints of written statutes regardless of the cause being demonstrated.
August 26, 2008
9:21 a.m.
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csatswra writes:
Heidi, It's the actions of the protesters that disgusts me. The police are reacting the way they should. I think one can protest without using violence and scare tactics.
August 26, 2008
9:27 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Thanks for clearing that up, csatswra. I see I'm not the only one who misunderstood you. Although, the "violence" portrayed last night does not compare to what goes on in other countries.
August 26, 2008
9:30 a.m.
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usmcmustang writes:
What exactly are they protesting again? With their protest not creating enough drama, they decide to incite a little action because they are bored? I am not seeing the link between what the protesters say they want and the actions they are taking to achieve their stated goal. Now, if they said they were disgruntled troublemakers who want to get attention and create drama, then I would say that they are achieving their goals. Like somebody said earlier in this post, THESE GUYS HAVE NO SUBSTANCE, but tons of coverage!!
August 26, 2008
9:30 a.m.
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fatheromalley writes:
csatswra.. one of Lenin's "useful idiots"..
You are young and naive, or old and immature, either way, it is evident you've never lived under real tyranny when you look at this and call it the same....
Your enslavement is paying taxes on your income, savings and investments without your choice.. but you're too busy enraptured by class warfare rhetoric to notice...
Love to all,
Father O'Malley
August 26, 2008
9:32 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
By the way, I don't think they were actually protesting anything. Me thinks they were just bored while waiting for the latest video games to be released and wanted to see how far they could push the law.
August 26, 2008
9:34 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Father O'Malley,
Show some love, will ya?
August 26, 2008
9:40 a.m.
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wow writes:
I think calling this group from last night "protesters" is a bit misleading.
If their goal is to disrupt the DNC, they are "disrupters".
Unless they can come up with something a bit more specific to outline their gripes, how can they expect to have any credibility?
If my sole purpose was to be disruptive, any where, any time, the police would arrest me, too.
Get a message, kids. You can't be idealistic if you haven't any ideals.
And then go where the intended recipients can hear you speak.
Civic center park at 7 pm?
Please. Pepperspray in your clothes is the least of your worries if that's the best you can do.
I'm so dissapointed in all of you, and your kids will be, too.
What a lame story.
August 26, 2008
9:43 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
That's great advice, wow. But I think it will be a long time before they are mature enough to understand it!
August 26, 2008
9:48 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Aliverer,
And they get to listen to all of the free music!!
August 26, 2008
10:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
At least they aren't gonna bust me for my pot!
Dope and Change Obama 08! Hurrah!
Tomorrow, rally around the May Pole!
August 26, 2008
10:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
rmnreader writes:
support your officers - I'm with you - I get it. I can't use my car to run over the protesters who are hindering my right to get home to have my afterwork glass of wine on my back patio so I AM depending on the officers to get them out of my way. :-)Thank you for caring about us non-protesters and keeping the selfish protesters under control.
BTW people - locking arms and advancing on the officers is an obvious threat - it would be threatening to a member of the public it's just stupid to do to officers in riot gear. What do you expect them to do retreat away from the advancing protesters? Then you would all be whining about how our officers are not doing their jobs and have no control.
August 26, 2008
10:09 a.m.
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O_TRAIN writes:
WOW - you are correct, these folks were more disrupters than protesters. With the right to protest comes responsibility to follow the rules and at the very least have a message.
It seems these past few days, each side is fullfilling each others existence. I'm sure the protesters were disappointed only a few were arrested Sunday (no street cred). The cops had a huge detention facility near empty (no cost cred). So, the disrupters try to get some attention and the cops have enough arrests to justify the cost and facility.
The cops having to react to both disrupters and legitimate protesters are in a no-win situation. Both sides will be making some tough decisions the next few days, please choose wisely.
August 26, 2008
10:09 a.m.
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HoosierGuy writes:
So a bunch of people wanted to play "1960's" and act like their heros Abbie & Stokely. Maybe someday they will start contributing in a manner that actually does someone some good.
August 26, 2008
10:10 a.m.
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rickg19611 writes:
Welcome to the People's Republic of Denver.... where Democrat party officials will arrest anyone who dares to speak out against the party line.... or the party chairman, our great leader Comrade Obama.
Dare to say anything critical of our great leader, Comrade Obama, and the brownshirts will ensure you are cast away in the gulag where you will be "reeducated" and only released after our great party has completed it mission of "selecting" our great leader, Comrade Obama by unanimous consent.
And if any delegates decide to vote their own conscience and stray from a vote for our great leader Comrade Obama, there will be roving gangs.... er I mean... "teams" of party officials on the convention floor to ensure all delegates support our great leader, Comrade Obama.
August 26, 2008
10:16 a.m.
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ou8one2 writes:
HolierThanThou writes:
I'd like to award the cops in the photo the chicken-cross medal for bravery. Wow! Brave, brave cops! Macing the be-Jesus out of that little woman. What courage! I'm sure she weighs all of ninety pounds. And check out her martial arts moves as she clings desperately to the guy with her eyes crammed shut.
It takes real guts to abuse little women like that. Those big tough cops must really be having a good time showing off their bravery. Congratulations, boys! Them's some real macho moves you got there!
===============================
And I'd like to award the organizers of this particular protest march the same award for their bravery and smart, intelligent thinking in regards to putting "little women" on the outskirts of such protest marches! Smart thinking and no different than a human shield. Real macho move they got there.
You are correct MKKG. These are the same tactics the terrorists in the Middle East use, hiding behind women and children and Mosqes, and then crying bloody murder when one of them gets hurt or killed. These 'protestors' are the biggest bunch of cowards and losers around. If they were really so tough, they would travel to the middle east and try these tactics. But we know how those governments would handle that situation, and they would not make it out alive.
August 26, 2008
10:18 a.m.
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wow writes:
"We would protest that we are tired of this parade of idiots and then we would throw their punk @sses right out of our fair city."
----------
Don't assume that any of these people are from out of town. From what I'm hearing, they mostly live here.
And that makes sense. How would a bunch of apathetic kids with no goals get the cash together to come here? And why would they even bother?
I think that's the real reason Tent State didn't get the tens of thousands turning up that they projected. Apathy.
August 26, 2008
10:19 a.m.
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Boarder22 writes:
I have an idea, why don't these people get a job, vote, and contribute to society in a positive way? Creating havoc in downtown with no real cause is stupid. Nobody knows what they're even protesting and I don't think they know either. How about you let the rest of us get to our jobs that support our families...and probably support you as well. If you set up a real protest and don't block the streets then people wil listen and respect you...and your message will get out. If you get in the street then I hope you get pepper sprayed....a lot. I can't stand these people.
August 26, 2008
10:20 a.m.
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ou8one2 writes:
I am so glad that Obama and the DNC have brought so much peace and change to our city. I can't wait to see what the Obamassia will change in the future.
August 26, 2008
10:22 a.m.
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MacInDenver writes:
I put up some videos and photos from last night at: www.flickr.com/photos/wackomaco/sets/72157606896508370/
August 26, 2008
10:26 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
wow,
I am assuming it may be college students that are just arriving back on campus and may have come a little sooner for this joyous event. What a great way to start off the school year!
August 26, 2008
10:28 a.m.
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Elwood writes:
Replace the cops with a bunch of gang-bangers and see how far the protesters go with their arms linked together. This would be some good reality tv if a reporter coud get it on camera.
August 26, 2008
10:32 a.m.
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NotUrFriend writes:
Wow,
Thats alot of force on the streets out there. I work over near Colfax and 16th and was very impressive with the overwhelming show of force. I only hope that its not abused or taken lightly what such force, when in use, can project about the city officials in power here.
This will be a very interesting week.
I.
August 26, 2008
10:39 a.m.
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GladysKravitz writes:
What these protesters did, as they always do, was violate the traffic laws by marching into auto-mobile traffic, stopping to demonstrate in the middle of the intersection. I have seen this in Seattle and SF, they do it all the time, it is not mere J-walking, no matter how minor compared to say vandalism, which seemingly has not been prevalent. It is impeding the right-of-way, even to pedestrian traffic.
If these yutzes don't know how to play fair and share the public sidewalk and they break the law, they get arrested. It's that simple.
Getting struck by a vehicle, broken bones, eating tire tread and pavement are far worse than pepper spray and minor bruises from a bean bag. Protest, scream, yell, cuss profanities, but abide by the law too.
August 26, 2008
10:42 a.m.
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jay writes:
my wife and i were there last night. much ado about very little.
on cue, some folks were arrested. no one got out of hand on either side of the line. chosen duties on both sides of the "conflict" were largely performed nonvoilently and fairly efficiently.
at times i'm pretty sure there were more photographers than protestors.
August 26, 2008
10:45 a.m.
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margoe writes:
Dumb dirty hippies deserve everything they get! They asked for this treatment and relish it. Now they want it to seem they are innocent for causes they know nothing about, if they even have a cause.
August 26, 2008
10:45 a.m.
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DocBronco98 writes:
Obamassiah!! LOL! Not mine thank you very much!
Be we rich be we poor wealthy happy or sad in this land of Freedom
and Opportunity we can choose our lot in life! It is the choices we have made that put us where we are, Not the choices others have made for us! Therefore walking arm toward police in riot gear is going into battle expecting rules of engagement. Hmmm what was that old adage don't go to a gunfight with water balloons...no no that isn't it .... oh yeah .... there are no rules and all is fair in love and War! So I believe they got what they requested their 15 minutes of fame and a face full of pepper spray!
August 26, 2008
10:46 a.m.
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hikingartist writes:
The day I agree with cowboy63 is finally here. Look, I am a liberal, I saw the Grateful Dead 32 times, but these stunts have lost their impact. In 1968, there was a point. These days, it is staged drama to create a "you tube" "real world" moment. I just see disillusioned kids trying too hard to re-create the look, and strife, of 3rd world rebels (and I mean "actual" rebels fighting for a live-or-die cause, hiding their faces in honest fear for their lives).
You will not solve any problems this way. If you are sincere about change, find a cause, volunteer, and for gods sake focus on positive results, not wanton destruction of public property.
August 26, 2008
10:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
LearnToSwim writes:
Are you kidding me?! "These people have a right to protest, as long as they aren't blocking streets, or inconveniencing anyone, or aren't stepping outside their proscribed cage."
How about The Boston Tea Party? Or Shay's Rebellion? Our the Revolutionary War? None of those "protests" were neat OR tidy. Those who've been critical of the courageous few who insist upon asserting their God-given, inalienable rights in the face of our Police State wish us to believe that they support "freedom" and "liberty". Truth be told, they'd have called Washington & Jefferson "dirty hippies" and been content to keep licking King George's boots.
August 26, 2008
10:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
proudtobeacanuk writes:
my rights, my rights...
Go home and stop causing trouble, for the sake of causing trouble. Ignorance is bliss...
Many or the protesters I've seen are simply sheep. "Hey everyone, lets going play in the street and stop traffic just to cause some sh!t and get our 0.005 minutes of fame". If I could vote... I'd vote for all these monkeys to keep playing on the yellow line, rathing that waste my money ( i pay taxes too) and pepper spay.
August 26, 2008
10:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
denverrma writes:
These people are protesting nothing! They are not voicing an opinion about any real issue facing voters and the public today. They are simply here to 'disrupt the DNC'. What is the point in blocking traffic and tearing down the trees planted along Denver streets. If they are not going to voice an opinion about issues and are just here to cause problems, more power to ya' Denver Police! Good work!
August 26, 2008
10:56 a.m.
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GladysKravitz writes:
solar_satellite...$50 million we've spent???....ahem...the city and county of denver has not spent DIME ONE on security... if you mean the general federal tax payer...that's one thing. But to imply that soley the taxpayers of Denver have been paying for this, you are flat wrong.
This was federal money, given to Denver* to pay for security FOR ALL - tourists, residents, delgates, downtown workers, and yes even out of town & loal protesters/activists. It is there so that god forbid, if I needed to call 9-11 for non-convention related emergency in my neighborhood, (ambulance, fire, etc), our city would have the resources to answer the call rather than to focus soley on downtown/convention emergencies, because of unruley hooligans and shmoes!
I do not know your exact leanings or causes, but what if a pro-war demostrator, or white supremists (like those 4 who recently got arrested), decided to beat up and injure or do worseto an anti-war or tent State/ Recreate 68 demonstraters, and their were not enough abulances to or law enforcement to come to their aide? How would you feel then? Would you still rant on forcing out the Cheif of Police?
* There are only four times when the federal govt gives grants to localities to pay for security at major events, they are: the two major political conventions (Dem/Repukes), the inauguration, and the Super Bowl. And NONE of the money comes out of the citys' treasuries.
August 26, 2008
11:01 a.m.
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DocBronco98 writes:
I live in the peoples (bastardized) Republic of Oregon, this looks like the yahoo's from Eugene and Portland invaded the land of my birth (Denver) and brought along their Idiot friends. Be careful what you so you eventually have it come to fruition and sometimes the harvest is just a little more than you want.
August 26, 2008
11:03 a.m.
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GladysKravitz writes:
to proudtobeacanuk...My rights, my rights! I LOVE what you said you remind me of beloved father may he rest in peace. He would say the same thing!
They even a right to be shmendricks!
August 26, 2008
11:05 a.m.
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DocBronco98 writes:
Sorry spelled sew wrong ... ooops better go back to school...LoL
August 26, 2008
11:05 a.m.
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ColdShot writes:
Good job to the police.These punks should have been sprayed, arrested, as they were, and thrown in the hickencoop until this spectacle is over! NOT TURNED LOOSE ON THE LAW ABIDING PUBLIC!
August 26, 2008
11:07 a.m.
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AvidLiberal writes:
All those protesters are just a bunch of Rush Limbaugh fans, what's the problem?
August 26, 2008
11:14 a.m.
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DocBronco98 writes:
Rush Limbaugh wouldn't walk down the street he would drive his cigar nicotine stained hands using his golf bag totting Limousine. Why would you think he is behind a bunch of Anarchists. But the true irony is the appeal for rights from an Anarchist n'est-ce pas!! (that is French for ain't it so!)
August 26, 2008
11:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
dilligaf writes:
rickg19611
As I read some very good posts here I knew I would eventually come to your dumb a--. I had to go back and read the article again because I thought I missed the part about Democratic Officials arresting anyone. I knew I read Denver Police but sometimes I get to reading to fast and I skip over some things. But has usual you where just showing your stupidity.
August 26, 2008
11:20 a.m.
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AvidLiberal writes:
Beat a dead horse with that manure spreading jargon. I'm convinced that Limbaugh planned this all and made his people that a brain dead lame brained stupids to pretend to be stupid people and that's all this is. It's Bush's fault because he didn't stop Limbaugh and this beatnick thing.
August 26, 2008
11:34 a.m.
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wow writes:
ssqured,
"A friend of mine (US Marshall) told me the various agencies have been running "intelligence" on out of state plates at various metro parking locations, streets etc. Says there's actually more out of state than they expected."
Iterresting.....but I had to laugh because Tent State alone expected 50,000 participants.
Not even close.
I haven't been watching the others.
Tell him to subtract one out of state plate.
I'm a native, driving a relative's car this week, and they aren't any where near here.
August 26, 2008
11:38 a.m.
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wow writes:
Who called those cages at little gitmo the "Hickencoop"!!!
LOL, that's too funny.
Thanks, that was brilliant.
I know, I gotta get out more.....
August 26, 2008
11:40 a.m.
Suggest removal
dilligaf writes:
I would think anyone with half a brain would figure out that the majority of these protesters are not protesting just Democrats or Republicans. They are protesting our government in general. And if anyone out there don't think what our glorious government is doing don't need protested against you have been living in a cave for years. The issue here is there always be a small amount of them that will always screw it up for the rest. This just in. When this convention is over most of these same people will be camped out in Minnesota. And anyone that puts the blame on the shoulders of the Republicans are as stupid as a small few on the message board.
August 26, 2008
11:56 a.m.
Suggest removal
FlyfishDude52 writes:
MacInDenver - Thanks for the photos! Many good frames depicting what appears to be a carnival atmosphere. I particularly liked the lady in the PETA shirt espousing "help global warming-tax meat." Well, I don't know about that being effective but I always thought that PETA was an acronym for "people eating tasty animals." So I didn't get the slogan...
August 26, 2008
12:03 p.m.
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elmysterio writes:
Dissent is the cornerstone of democracy. Without dissent, democracy dies. I am truly shocked by the attitudes of many posters here. No wonder the fascists were able to seize control of the government so firmly and easily. Seems like the majority EMBRACE them.
By using riot cops to beat and control the protests, the government is criminalizing dissent. The so-called "free speech zones" are not free. The government is now using tactics known as the "Miami Model" to antagonize and instigate violence in otherwise peaceful protests, then responding to disproportionate violence.
So all you "America, love it or leave it types", you better wake up to the reality of the situation before it's too late. You may soon discover that the republic is dead, and what has replaced it is a nightmare.
August 26, 2008
12:11 p.m.
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elmysterio writes:
"Then you try to provoke the police to act by doing something silly, like sit in the middle of the road"
Yeah... willful civil disobedience... oh my, what a CRIME... better bust their heads open with their nightsticks. Civil disobedience is one of the ONLY tools the citizens of a country have against the government. It is criminalized BECAUSE it's against the government. But remember folks, the government isn't your friend, and it doesn't represent your interests any longer.
As stated in the Declaration of Independence: "Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security."
Think about this: lying the country into 2 illegal wars of aggression, gutting any and all social programs, illegal spying on citizens, illegal detention of citizens without cause, abolishment of habeous corpus, HUGE corruption and graft... all these things show that the government has failed and needs to be "thrown off". Heck, with Bush and Cheney's "Unitary Executive" theory, Bush pretty much IS a Despot.
August 26, 2008
12:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
PRAYFORTHEKIDS: I'm assuming from your handle that you consider yourself a Christian. I am one too. But how does "Love your God with all your heart, and love your neighbour as yourself" mesh with "Pepper spray the dumb-asses"?
Sad to say it doesn't.
August 26, 2008
12:18 p.m.
Suggest removal
Support_your_Officers writes:
elmysterio
It stops being a civil, legal protest when they begin breaking the law. Going out into the street and obstucting traffic and the rights of others trying to drive home, to work or wherever else is ILLEGAL. The "peaceful" protestors put bandanas over their faces and walked arm-in-arm towards a squad of stationary riot gear clad Police. Who were the agressors??
August 26, 2008
12:24 p.m.
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wow writes:
elmysterio--
Your premises are all out of wack.
Dissent and civil disobedience are not the same thing.
No one got "cracked in the head".
The "protesters" had no message that was being silenced.
I'm not saying that the police didn't over react, but I think the hysterics about how " fascists were able to seize control of the government so firmly and easily." are a bit short sighted.
Over-simplifications and exaggerations don't do anything for anyone's cause.
August 26, 2008
12:28 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
I would say that most of those obstructing traffic and the rights of others to use the road as it was intended, have never had to be responsible for themselves and don't know what it's like to have job to support themselves or dependents. Their parents should be proud.
elmysterio,
Civil disobedience in this case was not against the government. It was against the normal working class people. The government was there to protect everyone else's rights. Who got their head busted open with a nightstick?
August 26, 2008
12:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
Pepper spray conservatives!
Pepper spray meat eaters!
Pepper spray the cops!
Pepper spray haters!
Pepper spray the Clinton backers for wanting to steal the nomination!
August 26, 2008
12:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
Support_your_Officers: The whole point of civil disobedience IS to break the law. So your point is that they blocked the road and obstructed traffic for people... hmmm... isn't the standing up against the sad state of the country far more important that someone driving down 15th street?
You also mention the bandanas over the face of some protesters. Frankly, you can't blame them. Helps protected against the cops chemical weapons. Who's more threatening? A protesters with a bandana or a cop in full para-military gear? From reading the articles about the protest from a couple different sources, it would seem that the Police were the aggressors, as they usually are with modern protests. Google the "Miami Model" to see what I'm talking about.
Frankly, I'm sure you'll never understand what I'm saying to you, and you can continue to be the "good German", but you better wake up... you're living in a very dangerous time.
August 26, 2008
12:31 p.m.
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elmysterio writes:
wow said: "fascists were able to seize control of the government so firmly and easily." are a bit short sighted."
If you don't think that America is quickly marching towards fascism, then you haven't been paying attention.
I do admit that I have simplified my argument here, but most of the "debate" here isn't of high intellectual value, so let's just keep it simple shall we.
August 26, 2008
12:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
Heidi said: "Who got their head busted open with a nightstick?"
Well, if you read my comment again, you can see that I was using sarcasm to demonstrate the idiocy of police violence against someone who's crime is sitting down in the street. Come on people, think!
August 26, 2008
12:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
I hate when sarcasm has to be explained...
Whoosh, right over the head!
Hey coppers, lay down in the street!
August 26, 2008
12:45 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
AvidLiberal said: "I hate when sarcasm has to be explained..."
As do I my friend. But what can ya do. The program to dumb-down the citizenry seems to be working wonderfully.
August 26, 2008
12:45 p.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
Where's the next protest? I'm down for that! What will we be protesting? Where can I park my mountain bike? Do we have to bring our own urine? Can I just bring a urine bag and fill it up there? How do we know the cops won't submit the urine for testing? Can we use somebody else's urine? I have been eating high energy food with lots of supplements so the poo part should flow easy, but what's the best container for holding poo? I think I figured out what is meant by the 'Just Poop' slogans! I'm up and I'm down for it!
August 26, 2008
12:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
So, Aliverer, you think that I'm just saying some 20-something talking points? Well, I'm sorry to say my friend, that you haven't been paying attention to what has happened over the past decade.
As well, just because I'm awake and can see what the government is doing, doesn't mean that I agree with Ward Churchill. Frankly, I couldn't give a crap what Mr. Churchill says. What I do care about is the direction the country is moving in and the impending police state. Quit being a slave to the establishment and LOOK at what's happening.
August 26, 2008
12:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
Intimidator writes:
I would suggest something biodegradeable for the poo.
August 26, 2008
12:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
Aliverer: I am not a 20 year old college student either. All I'm saying is that the government and BOTH political parties do not represent the interests of the working class people at all. As far as most of these elitists are concerned, we're nothing but, as Henry Kissinger so eloquently put it, "Useless eaters". A government that no longer represents the people is illegitimate.
August 26, 2008
12:53 p.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
Elmysterio, please avoid the term 'my friend' as that douche McCain has sullied it's use! My buddies call me buddy. You can call me buddy too, if you want to. Ned Gayles is also my buddy. Thumbs up and I'll see you at the corner of Colfax and Broadwater at the rally! Rock on buddy!
August 26, 2008
12:58 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
elmysterio,
My question "Who got their head busted open with a nightstick?" was also sarcasm. That went over AvidLiberal's head, too.
I can understand your concern about the government, but there also needs to be concern about the possible actions of anyone walking down the street. The morals and value systems of the whole human race is deteriorating. Personal responsibility and accountability is where the improvement should begin.
August 26, 2008
12:58 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
So tell me, all those who disagree with what I'm saying:
Are you perfectly ok with the direction the country is taking? Are you ok with your diminishing standard of living? Are you ok with having a government that consistently puts the interests of the corporations before those of the citizenry? Are you ok with the "land of the free" bringing death and destruction to millions of people around the world? These things are being done in your name. I, for one, am NOT ok with that.
August 26, 2008
1:02 p.m.
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elmysterio writes:
Heidi said: "My question "Who got their head busted open with a nightstick?" was also sarcasm. "
Ummm... I think you need to look up the definition of sarcasm, because your statement certainly wasn't.
Then as far as your point about "Individual responsibility" is an important one. As a citizen of the republic, you have the responsibility to hold the government accountable for it's actions. When those actions become directly opposed to the will of the majority, or opposed to the welfare of the citizenry, then that government needs to be publicly opposed. That is the INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY of each citizen.
Shutting down legitimate dissent because of "inconvenience" of commuters, is ignoring the forest for the trees.
August 26, 2008
1:03 p.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
Heidi,
It is a pleasured to be over the headed by a lady like you.
Please be careful with "head" talk during the DNC, my buddies can get kind of excited, if you know what I'm talking about...
August 26, 2008
1:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
Support_your_Officers writes:
elmysterio: The whole point of civil disobedience IS to break the law.
And it is the job of the Police to enforce the law!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They walked toward the STATIONARY Police. THEY were advancing on the Police line which is AGRESSIVE. And it is a scary time when there are people that think like you. In your world, are the Police not allowed to enforce the law? And then where will we be? Anarchy, which is what the instigators in these protests want.
August 26, 2008
1:06 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
Aliverer: Then I'm sorry for you. You obviously can't see past your own existence into the bigger picture. YOU may have a happy little life in your blissful ignorance, but millions of your fellow citizens do not.
What I am most amazed at, is the fact that you can't see how the government no longer represents the people. I guess if you're not paying attention, and get your "news" from the mainstream media, it would be easy to miss. But everything is not ponies and rainbows in the republic. In fact, the republic is facing the biggest threat it's faced since the civil war. That threat is not an external one, instead, it comes from within...
August 26, 2008
1:07 p.m.
Suggest removal
Intimidator writes:
Yo El Kabong! I'm perfectly happy with NOT taking the country the direction you and your ilk wish to take it in.
August 26, 2008
1:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
Heidi writes:
elmysterio,
The government is made up of individuals. So, if they were also responsible, we wouldn't have to worry about anything. It will never happen. ;)
August 26, 2008
1:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
Support_your_Officers: then I'm afraid that you've missed the point completely.
August 26, 2008
1:10 p.m.
Suggest removal
elmysterio writes:
intimidator said: "Yo El Kabong! I'm perfectly happy with NOT taking the country the direction you and your ilk wish to take it in."
So, tell me, what direction do you think I wish to take it in? I haven't said... so since you appear to have the power of mind-reading, please enlighten us.
As well, your typical neo-fascist insults (as in the play on my name) are ineffective. It's been my experience that when you confront the reactionary-right, that their usual response is with illogical anger and insults.
August 26, 2008
1:18 p.m.
Suggest removal
AvidLiberal writes:
I agree elmysterio my buddy! Every time I turn my intellectual genius on the fascists, they are like calling me names and stuff! Those stupids are like totally out of the play ground with their lack of nuance and they just want the Bushilter guy to bring down the world with his man "Cheat me" Cheney.
Down with the man! Bring on the fascists with night sticks! I don't need no stinking laws! Pepper spray the Hillary supporters, t