The cops tried to limit the action. As soon as the protesters got near the convention center, cops told them they would not be allowed to demonstrate closer than across the street. To emphasize that point, the police brought in at least half a dozen wagons, unlocked the back doors and brought out bundles of plastic handcuffs. The cops' arrogance only made the protesters more determined. Instead of following their original plan of circling the center, they positioned themselves on the most visible street and kept up a loud and militant presence all morning.
Homeless people are particularly vulnerable to police harassment.
But despite the presence of cops videotaping the protest and repeatedly shooting pictures with telephoto lenses, the homeless and their supporters stood their ground. Permission to reprint granted if source is cited.