The events marking the first anniversary of the Seattle Fair Trade demonstrations are celebrations of a profound turning point in the history of international trade. From a global perspective, the Seattle demonstrations are almost universally viewed as a pivotal factor in redirecting the globalization debate to include environmental, human rights, labor standards, consumer protection, and national and local self-determination. Locally, however, some view the demonstrations last year as unwelcome inconveniences and embarrassments. This misinformed viewpoint creates a political climate that denies the celebratory and substantive nature of the events planned by various groups and invites a repressive posture by city officials. Sincere celebrants thus become marginalized, denigrated, and targeted.
History provides ample evidence of impaired civil rights of groups thus characterized.
We support the Director's comments. Each group is responsible for their own activities. Hundreds of organizers are committed to non-violent, peaceful activities and have worked hard to ensure that this week's events are peaceful despite the mounting hostility coming from some quarters. There are likely to be a couple of marches and demonstrations in streets. Parade permit requirements effectively require citizens to ask permission for the right to assemble.