Inauguration events

Here's that million-man march on Washington I've been waiting for.

Democratic and independent activists from all over the United States are planning protests to coincide with the inauguration of George W. Bush on Jan. 20, 2005.

Several Washington-based groups will lead the protests, including United for Peace and Justice and D.C. Anti-War Network (DAWN). While spokesmen for both groups were reluctant to talk about specific numbers, some activists on Internet Weblogs, discussion forums and e-mail listservs have been calling for as many as 10 million people to descend on the nation's capital.

"We are urging people to go to Washington," said Bill Dobbs, media coordinator for United for Peace and Justice. "We also encourage local protests and the white ribbon wearing" campaign for peace.

Souterner Daily News article

Okay, ten million. Even better. I think I'll plan on going.

Oh, well....on second thought...

In New Orleans, a coalition of groups is planning to hold a jazz funeral for democracy. It is being called "a wake for peace" and a Web site is being launched this week called "jazzfuneralfordemocracy.com."

United for Peace and Justice urges everyone who can to converge in Washington, DC on January 20. We encourage you to participate in the creative, powerful protest activities being organized by two groups: the DC Anti-War Network (DAWN)) and Turn Your Back on Bush.

[...]

From Turn Your Back on Bush:

"Turn Your Back on Bush is a new kind of event in an old tradition: direct nonviolent action. In the past four years, Bush has made it clear that dissent is unwelcome in his America, and his policies have created an atmosphere where demonstrators are corralled and their messages marginalized. Polls show that the majority of Americans disagree with Bush on numerous issues, but by refusing to talk to anyone but the most subservient press outlets and appearing only in highly staged events, he has cut himself off from all but his most ardent supporters. We want our audience with our President.

”On inauguration day, we will gather as citizens for the public events of the day and join the rest of the crowd. At a given signal, we will turn our backs. Until the moment we turn around, there will be nothing to distinguish us from the rest of the crowd. By leaving our signs and buttons at home, we will avoid all of the obstacles that Bush and his supporters have used to keep anyone who disagrees with him out of sight. For this one moment we will speak as one and show Bush that winning an election does not mean he has the support of all Americans."

  United for Peace and Justice article

I do wonder how that will work out. I have a feeling that the inauguration "public" events are going to be "invitation only" this year.