Colorado Independent Media Center

When you wake up this morning and read the headlines about McCain's speech, the latest horserace tally, and political predictions, I want you to be aware of events you may not read about, events that illuminate the real state of our democracy, events that brought me to tears (and it wasn't just from the gas). I want to tell you about battle that raged on the streets of St. Paul- A battle waged by the police, backed, funded, and organized by the Department of Homeland Security, a battle against peaceful protesters, war veterans, concerned citizens, and journalists.

It was 10:09 am and I had just arrived at the Civic Center Park for the Procession for the Future Street Puppet March. It was hot and like many there in the park I could not help but gravitate to the shade which was in short supply. On the stage was a folk singer singing protest songs as people prepared for the march. Signs where being worked on, and floats readied; the atmosphere was relaxed.