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Sheehan Anti-War Rally Cut Short

Yesterday, New York City officers ended Cindy Sheehan's speech in Union Square, arresting the rally organizer and infuriating supporters:

The claps and cheers that had greeted Ms. Sheehan's arrival at the rally in Union Square quickly turned to furious chants of "Let her speak!" as officers ushered away the organizer, Paul Zulkowitz, who the police said lacked audio permits for the event.

Angry activists followed officers as they led Mr. Zulkowitz away, waving their fists and shouting, "Shame, shame, shame." Ms. Sheehan, who was visiting New York on the last leg of a bus tour across the country, was nearing the end of her speech when the police officers arrested Mr. Zulkowitz. She was whisked to a car by two supporters just before the police officers seized the microphone. Mr. Zulkowitz was arrested because he did not have a permit, said the commanding officer of the 13th Precinct, Inspector Michael J. McEnroy.

Detective Kevin Czartoryski said Mr. Zulkowitz was charged with unauthorized use of a sound device and disorderly conduct, and was released after being given a court summons.Detective Czartoryski said the police had taken the "appropriate action" in response to a lawbreaker.

This just does not make sense. If war advocates really want to bolster their cause, then letting Sheehan speak could do less damage than silencing her. I think the momentun is already there, but direct confrontation will only accelerate the anti-war movement.

posted by the prisoner @ 9:28:00 AM