jookyle
3rd May 2012, 03:45
This was posted by a police officer on the website reddit.com.
Ive had that opportunity to speak with dozens of protesters this past year from Occupy and similar movements. Ive also spoken with many more store owners, residents and people working in the area. I keep hearing these two things from the public:
I agree with the protesters but they are acting juvenile.
What specifically do they want?
Now I understand the majority of the time it isnt the protesters causing the violence and crime; however, the protesters are being used as cover and human shields. We the Police cant safely move through crowds to arrest these few trouble makers and have to address the entire group.
ADVICE Appearance:
Sunday best. Its what worked for the union movements, Womans Suffrage and the Civil Rights Movement.
Refuse to be cover for those who would sully the message of your cause.
Get a permit! It is easy and gets the public/Police on your side.
Message: The rest of the public seems to think the Occupy movement lacks specific goals/demands. Here are a few I think would be popular:
Federal bill stating a maximum 4% interest rate on student loans
A bill legalizing Marijuana with a 20% federal tax in addition to state taxes
A bill stating Corporations are not people. Money is not speech.
End super pacs
These are just my thoughts and arent meant to be insulting or condescending.
It's gotten over 18,000 up votes. I thought you guys would like to see what the police are trying to spread into the movement(s)
Ive had that opportunity to speak with dozens of protesters this past year from Occupy and similar movements. Ive also spoken with many more store owners, residents and people working in the area. I keep hearing these two things from the public:
I agree with the protesters but they are acting juvenile.
What specifically do they want?
Now I understand the majority of the time it isnt the protesters causing the violence and crime; however, the protesters are being used as cover and human shields. We the Police cant safely move through crowds to arrest these few trouble makers and have to address the entire group.
ADVICE Appearance:
Sunday best. Its what worked for the union movements, Womans Suffrage and the Civil Rights Movement.
Refuse to be cover for those who would sully the message of your cause.
Get a permit! It is easy and gets the public/Police on your side.
Message: The rest of the public seems to think the Occupy movement lacks specific goals/demands. Here are a few I think would be popular:
Federal bill stating a maximum 4% interest rate on student loans
A bill legalizing Marijuana with a 20% federal tax in addition to state taxes
A bill stating Corporations are not people. Money is not speech.
End super pacs
These are just my thoughts and arent meant to be insulting or condescending.
It's gotten over 18,000 up votes. I thought you guys would like to see what the police are trying to spread into the movement(s)