UPDATE, 10/1/10 -- The protest went off as planned, attracted more than 20 demonstrators and many friendly car horns honking. But no news media. My sign read "Prosecute war criminals, not peace activists."
Then some demonstrators went to the Illinois Central College-based radio station, WAZU at 90.7 on the FM dial, where we were interviewed live about the event.
This new station now is broadcasting Democracy Now at 7 a.m. Monday through Friday, where news of this FBI raid was discussed earlier in the week. Democracy Now with Amy Goodman is the best news show on radio -- not to be missed. It's also on the web, but it's terrific that it's now available on radio in Peoria.
PEORIA -- Here's a news release on an event worth attending: (Will the so-called tea party activists join this event?)
Last Friday, September 24, FBI agents entered seven homes and an office of long-time peace and solidarity activists in Minneapolis and Chicago seeking evidence of "material support" of terrorism--confiscating cell phones and computers, posters, even a child's drawing.The FBI also gave subpoenas to testify before a federal grand jury to eleven activists in Illinois, Minnesota, and Michigan. These raids were aimed at those who dedicate their time and energy to supporting the struggles of the Palestinian and Colombian peoples against U.S. funded occupations and wars. (SOA Watch)
These raids were not aimed at particularly militant groups, but at activists. They were clearly part of an attempt to intimidate peace and solidarity activists throughout the country. Groups such as the School of the Americas Watch and Food Not Bombs have been infiltrated and investigated in the past.
We need to stand up and speak up against this kind of repressive use of power.
The Peoria Area Peace Network will have a protest gathering this Friday, Oct. 1, beginning at 4:30 p.m. outside the Federal Building at the corner of Main and Monroe Streets in downtown Peoria.
Please join us for about an hour of witness to our belief that the First Amendment still protects everyone's right to speak their opinions. There will be some signs, but please bring your own if you like. Petitions will be available for signing. -30-
Here's a link to a news story on this issue.
Here's an analysis of what is really going on.
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