Hundreds of protesters have demonstrated daily for the past month in front of the Bolsa Avenue store, and about as many people have called nightly to three local Vietnamese radio stations. Before the show starts, people are already calling in. All they call in for is Tran Truong, Tran Truong. Radio show hosts say the hanging of a communist flag and photo of Ho Chi Minh has been the hottest topic since the controversy began Jan. 18. Attorneys have been invited as guests on these shows to explain the law and protesters' rights.
Callers only give their first name and sometimes their city of residence.
Their voices rise with anger as some recall deaths of loved ones under communism. Some suggested plastering photos of Ho Chi Minh on the pathway to Tran's store. Tran loves Ho Chi Minh so much, he can step on him, a caller said. Some protesters actually carried out this suggestion Saturday. Just as one listener calls Tran a hero for speaking out, the next caller blasts him.