Somebody tell me how this protesting thing works... if it does.
sapperskunk
Posts: 684
I've participated in one protest, but the outcome was positive because I actually achieved my goal and changed a policy. What I can't understand is why some people think that by protesting the war in Iraq, something's gonna happen. No legislation is going to happen, soldiers and Iraqis are still dying, the occupation is in full swing with no real end in sight.
I think the reality is with protests is that all that's going on is a public disclosure of dissatisfaction with the war or admin. Nothing else.
Is protesting an internal feeling, maybe a way to clear YOUR conscience? Cause I didn't particularly enjoy it. Or really understand it.
I have the opportunity to lead a protest here in a few days and I'm sort of on the fence, I got lucky last time. Gimme some advice geeks!
I think the reality is with protests is that all that's going on is a public disclosure of dissatisfaction with the war or admin. Nothing else.
Is protesting an internal feeling, maybe a way to clear YOUR conscience? Cause I didn't particularly enjoy it. Or really understand it.
I have the opportunity to lead a protest here in a few days and I'm sort of on the fence, I got lucky last time. Gimme some advice geeks!
www.myspace.com/olafvonmastadon
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Look, you protest because you are so fucking sick of it, you have to speak out. One person protesting--nothing will happen. Many people--something will happen. If a politician has lots of protesters, making a scene, he/she must address it--and that is the goal.
But there's been tons of protests on Iraq with thousands of people involved, and nothings changed?
First of all, the protests have worked. The most obvious of the results is Rumsfeld getting axed. Secondly, a one man protest isn't out of the question, however politicians respond to greater displeasure--they worry that the 'natives are getting restless'. That impacts what happens in their next election--the biggest concern. In effect, you hit them where it hurts. One man does not have that effect by himself. Now, if that man can get public support for his ideas and gain a constituency, then shit will start to happen.
I take it you've done this protest thing before, what would be some good advice to keep in mind as I go about my business? Signs are good, knowledge of material, lots of cigarettes, what am I missing?
Knowlege should be first always. You must present your arguments, when given the chance, clearly, and most importantly, persuasively. The thing you need to watch out for, because they will hurt more than help, is the serial protester. They are the idiots that just get off on saying something against the grain. These are the individuals that couldn't speak to the issue if quizzed on demand. The bottom line is: If you wouldn't feel comfortable with a person being interviewed about the issue, you should avoid them. They discredit whatever it is you stand for.
Show some self control. Don't be a fucking meathead. Peaceful, smart, well-orchestrated protest are the most effective. If you doubt me, I encourage you to read about ghandi or mlk, jr.
Mr. Skunk, what are you planing on protesting? I see you live in Seattle, maybe I can help.
When it comes to dickweeds I say kick their face in, that will really help you prove your passion for your protest.
things are changing... but it hasn't happend overnight, but policy seems to be changing. If no one protested the iraq war, do you really think that the Iraq study group would have even existed, or rumsfield would be out, or the dems would have taken control of congress?
was like a picture
of a sunny day
“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”
― Abraham Lincoln