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Protestors Cry Foul over Proposed G8, NATO Restrictions
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/16-5Protesters are criticizing Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel's plan to raise fines and tighten security measures during the upcoming G8 and NATO summits.
Pittsburgh police in riot gear redeploy after confrontations with protestors near the Strip District in Pittsburgh, Thursday Sept. 24, 2009. Hundreds of demonstrators marched in protest of the G20, which is expected to begin in Pittsburgh on Thursday. (AP Photo/Jacqueline Larma) The mayor introduced an ordinance during Wednesday's City Council meeting that, if passed, would temporarily raise fines for resisting police or aiding someone escaping arrest. During the summits, which could draw thousands of protesters, Emanuel wants to increase the minimum fine from $25 to $200 and double the maximum fine to $1,000. His proposed ordinance would also close parks, playgrounds and beaches overnight for longer periods of time.
"People are outraged," said Mary Zerkel, who's with the Quaker group American Friends Services Committee. "It's, again, the tightening of free speech."
Zerkel said the proposed restrictions could deter peaceful protesters.
