Iraq Veteran Has Constitutional Rights Violated at Birthplace of United States -- During a protest against US military action in Syria

The Raw Story reported Sunday that Iraq War veteran Emily Yates was arrested Friday during a protest against US military action in Syria.

According to the report, the incident occurred while Yates was playing her banjo in Philadelphia’s Independence Mall. For a brief historical reminder, that’s where:

-The Declaration of Independence was adopted
-The Constitution was debated, drafted and signed
-The Liberty Bell stands

The second item on that list specifically guarantees free speech and the right to peaceably assemble. Yet, as with so many other cases in modern America, Yates was afforded neither.

Yates was approached by Federal Parks Police and, after a discussion about why she could not stand in a shaded area of Independence Mall, was bent over a bench and handcuffed. She screamed, “We live in a police state! We live in a f*cking police state! They’re damaging my body and my personal property! I went to war for this country! Stop manhandling me! Stop! Stop! Help! Help!”

Moar: [link to downtrend.com]

Last Edited by Wounded Satellite on 09/04/2013 12:02 AM