For most of the "Occupy Wall Street" movement, protesters have been abiding by the laws of this country and seeking peaceful demonstrations. Lately, it seems that the tension between the protesters and the police has been getting worse and worse. Police in Seattle have pepper-sprayed an 84-year-old woman as well as a pregnant 19-year-old just this past week. Demonstrators are outraged by the recent use of brute force exhibited by police. Because of this, many are seeking revenge. In fact, protesters in New York have threatened to fight back, stating that they will use rocks, bottles and molotov cocktails to retaliate against aggressive cops. One protester even stated that they will "burn New York City to the ground". This very well may be just an empty threat, but authorities take statements like these seriously.
Even though police are kicking it up a few notches, protesters have held their ground. I may not agree with what they're protesting against, but I admire their willingness to stand up for what they believe in. The media has been bashing these demonstrators left and right simply because they won't go away. It's alarming to see how drastically America has devalued the right to assembly. Throughout the Perilous Times unit, we have been discussing how our government has limited this amendment just about every time there is a military conflict. Unfortunately, this right is looked down upon even in modern times. Ultimately, I feel like it is our job as the new generation to continue using our Constitutional right of free speech, and at the same time, not crucify each other for our discrepancies, which is what the media is best at.
Click here to see the full pepper-spray article.
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