PGHIMC - Pittsburgh Independent Media Center

Please respect diversity of tactics
by ... Monday, Mar. 17, 2003 at 2:19 AM
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A plea to actually respect a diversity of non-violent tactics.

I attended the picnic, rally, and march today in Pittsburgh. I thought it was (for the most part) an awesome display of what is possible when people join together for a common goal. There was one distubering thing that occured which I feel the need to bring attention to. During the march some individuals wheeled out a dumpster which they used to block the street. The dumpster was then moved out of the streets by other activists. The group that organized this march supports a diversity of non-violent tactics. POG announced prior to the march that it was un-permitted, that is was of a disruptive nature, and that people should participate how they saw fit. It is extremely disappointing that some people took it upon themselves to decide what tactics were acceptable and which were not. How would they feel if other peace activists attempted to stop you from marching without a permit because they didn't support such a tactic. What if they followed you while you were flyering and removed any flyers you left at business's because they didn't support the flyer you were leaving. Whether you agree or disagree with the tactics being used it's not in solidarity to cancel out the actions of others. You did not have to participate or condone but you shouldn't reverse the work of others.

Please people: If you are unable to stop yourself from disrupting the non-violent tactics of others do not go on a march that is advertised as supporting such tactics. It is not your place to force your prefered tactics on others.

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