This unpermitted, anarchic protest has been, by far, the most effective Portland protest to date. The local news has been riveted to the events, traffic was stopped, and the Portland police was clearly shown to be unable to rule the masses. Splinter tactics, direct action, and road blockages have been totally effective. TONIGHT, PORTLAND RULED ITSELF! THANK YOU, PROTESTERS!
Compare 5 hours of ongoing coverage on several television channels with the usual 10 second ("A small group [30,000] of anti-war protesters were present in downtown Portland Today. Meanwhile, a large group [100] of pro-war supporters demonstrated. Way to go, troops (yadda yadda yadda)."
How did you do it? You blocked traffic. You didn't obey the police or token leaders. You were mobile and outsmarted the cops. You had the guts to clash with cops on the Steel Bridge (right on, radicals!).
As the propaganda swells from the pillage of Iraq, you've gained control of Portland and brought attention to the fact that we do not want this war! Thank you so very much, protesters!!! I love you guys and gals!
|
