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At a public forum, anti-war groups expressed concern about where they'll be allowed to protest during the '08 GOP convention.
By Joy Powell and Doug Grow, Star Tribune
Last update: March 27, 2007 – 12:02 AM | http://www.startribune.com/587/story/1081419.html
Long before an estimated 45,000 visitors come to St. Paul for the 2008 Republican National Convention, protesters are demanding assurances that they will be able to speak freely, and within view of the Xcel Energy Center, the convention's main venue.
On Monday night, city officials attempted to address those concerns and others at the third public forum on the event. Officials said they are trying to balance the need for public safety with the right of public expression.
But anti-war activist Charles Underwood was skeptical: "I want to know that I have my civil liberties, and your vague assurances aren't cutting it," he told Matt Bostrom, assistant St. Paul police chief, and other officials who addressed about 75 people at the West 7th Community Center.
At recent conventions in other cities, demonstrators often have been isolated in "free-speech zones" far from the convention sites -- and media coverage.
Bostrom said limiting protesters to a delineated zone would not happen in St. Paul.
"The city of St. Paul is a free-speech zone," he said.
Bostrom and City Council Member Dave Thune repeatedly said that the city is respectful of all political ideologies and expression.
Thune said he will propose that an advisory committee be established to weigh how to protect the city as it upholds the rights of free speech and expression.
But representatives of several anti-war and justice groups said they're angry about being told by St. Paul officials that they can't get permits to hold demonstrations or parades during the convention until six months before the event.
"There is all sorts of public space being set aside for the Republicans," said Jess Sundin of the Anti-War Committee during a news conference earlier Monday.
"We sent in our applications and payments for permits a few days after it was announced that the Republicans were holding their convention here. They held them for five months and then sent them back and said they don't want to deal with this issue now. It feels to us like they're interested in suppressing free speech."
The groups are seeking permits to demonstrate outside the Xcel Center and to hold marches between the State Capitol and the Xcel Center on the first and last days of the convention.
Typically, St. Paul police handle issuing permits for such events.
Police spokesman Tom Walsh said there is "no logic to [the groups'] complaints."We're using the same process for them as we use for every demonstration," he said. "It's the process we've followed forever. I guarantee you no one's rights will be stepped on."
Marie Braun, of the Twin Cities Peace Campaign, said the Republican Convention is not like any event the city has dealt with before.
"We expect our voices to be heard, but we want it all to be peaceful and organized. If it's not organized, we fear that repressive tactics might end up being used. We need the permits now," she said.
Beyond the free-speech issues, residents raised concern at the forum about traffic jams and about disruptions in routines and commutes.
Bostrom said the convention's busiest hours will be after 5 p.m., which will help limit the effects on downtown businesses. And, he said, police are carefully weighing how big to set perimeters, mindful that local residents and businesses still need to get through.
jpowell@startribune.com • 612-673-7750 dgrow@startribune.com • 612-673-1737
Anti-War
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