City, police attempting to stop Occupy Tampa

Yesterday the Tampa Police Department forced protesters to remove all their belongings – literature table, tents, sleeping bags, blankets, food, water, backpacks, coolers, chairs, purses, -- from the sidewalk. The police said protesters could spend the night outside the park as long as none of their belongings were on the sidewalk. The civil rights lawyer who was assisting protesters has backed off due to police pressure. As a result of these bullying tactics, clearly intended to crush the movement, about 60 protesters spent the night sleeping on the sidewalk with no protection except for the clothes they wore.

In addition, the city attorney is apparently drafting legislation that will make it illegal for protesters to occupy public parks and spaces such as sidewalks. According to an Occupy Tampa press release: "The ACLU is actively seeking to prevent this legislation in its current form. The proposed changes to the drafted legislation could be submitted to City Council for approval as soon as Monday, October 17."

If this movement dies out -- and it will if most of us stand on the sidelines -- it's back to business as usual, a tried and truly miserable prospect. We hope all of you will show up today at Lykes Gaslight Park to show your support. And please call Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn's office at 813-274-8251 and let them know you don't support their bullying tactics or the proposed legislation.