One of the things that bothers me about the counter-arguments to vandalism against starbucks, is the idea that we should be neutral and fair.
I don't know about people raised in a different income bracket, but I was raised under the impression that life -isn't- fair.
Of course I would be upset if someone firebombed the red and black. Why? Because it's the coffeeshop that represents the way that I think the system should work (well, as long as there's capitalism, anyway).
Of course I'm not upset by someone firebombing Starbucks.
I doubt you'll hear me yelling its 'unfair' for Starbucks to strike back against the anarchist community, but you would see me trying to stop them from striking back.
How often do you hear people who live and fight on the streets talk about the importance of 'fighting fair'?
fair fighting is an illusion.
Tell a farmer defending his land against the Bank, who is shooting, that it isn't fair for him to shoot at the people trying to kick his family off their land.
Tell the native americans that they should use diplomacy to regain what is theirs. Thats only 'fair'.
I get annoyed when people spend their time complaining about the brutality of the police at direct-action demonstrations. Of course they tried to stop us from storming the hotel. Instead of complaining, we need to be figuring out ways around them.
As for starbucks, I know that a company that profits from free-trade agreements is the enemy of the people of central and south america. I will not advocate violence against people as a way to stop starbucks, but I respect people who defend their community. Homeless people have a lot to lose from the gentrification of south-east portland. When yuppies come, the undesireables are swept away. Starbucks means 'no loitering' and 'no loitering' means death to communities that meet each other on the street.
but look, we call it class war for a reason.
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It doesn't take Einstein to figure out how the economy works. Even a mom and pop neighborhood needs an economy to thrive. If you encourage violence, destruction and over all stupidity in your communities do you really think your property values will continue to rise? That tax dollars will be spent on housing improvements, schools and safety?
Instead of pointing the finger and being such a victim all your life, try taking a look at your own actions and how it really effects your community.
You really think a local Joe is going to move into Starbuck's old spot knowing that you'll burn down his shop if he ever pisses you off?
Using these tactics only demoralizes your argument. Try using education and good judgment, it just might get you further.