PGHIMC - Pittsburgh Independent Media Center

The Disunity of Anonymity
by Matthew Siegler Monday, Mar. 31, 2003 at 11:20 AM
msiegler@ureach.com (email address validated)

Anonymous text postings could discredit our discourse (and other musings.)

Now that the free world is aware of indymedia we can expect a relentless barrage of missives, untruths, and fabrications from the unnamed. I am afraid that without multiple photographic accounts, any information anonymously presented as "fact" can (and should) be regarded with skepticism. We can be sure that many will take them to be hearsay or fact depending on the observer's goals. I live in Pittsburgh - Ward 14, and I observed and participated in the unpermitted walk down Braddock, and dispersed when I was informed by a POG member that it was becoming "unadvisable" to continue participate. I want to thank POG for being aware of the situation and having made our point, knowing when to call it a day. I am presently conflicted with the "diversity of tactics" issue that was well addressed by one speaker during the rally. Each individual should know where the line ought to be drawn according to their own limits. But some actions threaten constructive action. Vandalism, abuse, and general mayhen are useless in the greater good. On a parallel note, I am certain that some are and will continue to take advantage of a protest for selfish aims. To those people I ask to go find another venue to and a willing participant to vent your frustrations. In the meantime, we all will need to consider how to deal with this (and we must.) How have peace marshalls been effective in larger movements? Finally, I would suggest a reading of the ACLU guide to dealing with police in everyday situations. Don't be discouraged

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