Occupy

Yesterday I participated in a peaceful Occupy Boston demonstration in front of the Federal Reserve Building in Boston. It doesn't take much. Just show up. The rest is simple. Clap your hands. Chant or don't chant slogans, such as "This is what democracy looks like!" The atmosphere was inclusive, friendly and spirited.

As I crossed the street to the demonstration, a squadron of motorcycle police approached. They deployed in front of the doors of the Federal Reserve, the symbol of corporate control of our government. A cordon of policemen with riot gear soberly glared at the crowd of sitting demonstrators, who showed no sign of aggression against them or the building. Who were the provocateurs in this situation? The police, whose stance symbolized the threat of aggression and militarism in a peaceful and inclusive situation. 

The Occupy Boston demonstration of civil discontent is not what democracy should look like in an ideal democracy. In this country, controlled by religious fanatics, militarists and money-manipulators, this is what democracy must look like to salvage what little of it remains. Those who have committed to the Occupy Boston demonstrations are true defenders of democracy and peaceful freedom.