Family Moab

Family Moab
In Arches National Park

Tuesday, January 17, 2017

Moving Forward to the March

“If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."

― Martin Luther King Jr.

King worked for the rights of all people, died during a speech for better treatment of black and white sanitation workers. He separated the "wrong act" from the "wrongdoer" and extended love, compassion and forgiveness to everyone he met. King's model of political action challenges me to wrap my arms around inclusion and work for a tide that lifts all people. Challenging stuff, particularly in the wake of abusive and hate-filled headlines of the past six months.

I'm preparing my mind and heart for the Women's March on Washington this coming Saturday. Drilling down on the reasons for marching (I have to add my voice to those protecting human rights), and building up positivity and spiritual stamina. My dear friend Carol told me that her goal was to listen - really listen - to each viewpoint. She said wisely that people need to be heard.  Carol also noted that her job is not to convince anyone of the rightness of her position, and will only explain her stance if asked. I still do want to convince people - lawmakers, particularly - of the need for human rights and a functioning planet, but I will try to practice listening with love.

To assuage my mother's worries about the March, I went to the organizers' FAQ page (link here). Of note: the nonviolent nature of the March, organizers' full cooperation with authorities, and avowed safety of undocumented persons. (Can you imagine wanting to march because you love this country and have lived here nearly your entire life, but because you are undocumented you fear showing your face on the streets?) Legal observers will ensure that human rights are respected.

Mom, here are a few more reassuring words on safety precautions. I'll get back to you on the number of the legal hotline in case of arrest. (Just kidding! I'm not gonna get arrested).

Q: What is the security plan?
A: First and foremost we have a permit. The purpose of the permit is not only to secure a location, but to ensure all city agencies, including the police, are involved in the planning process. Security is a top priority. All proper security measures have been discussed and put in place in coordination with the police and other city agencies. Second, we have hired a private security firm and will have numerous professional security workers throughout the entire march. Some will be easy to identify, others will not. Third, we have over 1000 trained marshals in place to help maintain order and to provide direction to marchers.
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Q: What if I get arrested?  Is there a phone number I can call?
A: We do not anticipate there will be any arrests during this march. We are working with local and federal law enforcement and do not intend to engage in any civil disobedience. We expect all marchers to abide by all laws and any instruction of law enforcement. We have also spoken to law enforcement regarding their policies as it relates to undocumented immigrants and they have stated they will not be making any arrests of law-abiding marchers, no matter what their status is. Finally, we are planning a peaceful demonstration and are training marshals in de-escalation tactics and ask that all marchers remain peaceful. However, to ensure that all marchers feel safe, we are in the process of setting up a legal hotline for marchers who are detained or arrested, or family and friends inquiring on behalf of someone who has been arrested. 

Q: Will there be marshals? How many?
A: Yes, there will be trained marshals. We will have a sufficient number in attendance to ensure that people are properly directed and orderly.

Q: Are there going to be legal observers at the march? Who are they? 
A: Yes, we are actively recruiting legal observers and training them. Legal Observers are typically, but not exclusively, law students, legal workers and lawyers. All volunteers interested in acting as Legal Observers for the march are trained and directed by the National Lawyers Guild. However, it is very important to note that we are planning a peaceful demonstration and do not anticipate there being any negative interactions with the police. We encourage all participants to observe our principles of non-violence if they wish to participate in this march.

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