By Indymedia counts, 270 peaceful protestors, many wearing black, marched
through Oakland Thursday evening, bringing their message to the sidewalk in a
permitted and silent funeral procession. At the front of the march, 8
pallbearers bore 2 black coffins as symbols of those who have died in the
war on Iraq.
Police response to the peaceful march was frequently absurd. Dozens of
police, many in riot gear, were prepared for mass arrests. Plastic
handcuffs stood ready, as did at least two paddy wagons and men with
sticks and guns. Traffic was slowed down along the route by the excessive
police presence while protestors remained in a dignified march along the
sidewalk.
The march ended with quiet singing by the Raging Grannies. After the march, many stayed around to send letters to the District Attorney, asking that all charges for the Pittsburgh 122 (those arrested under questionable circumstances on March 20) be dropped.
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