Denver Direct: How to Re-create 1968 in Denver

1. Consider, but then reject, the idea of allowing camping in the parks during the DNC. The Mayor’s Extraordinary Event Powers could have included camping in the parks, but didn’t.
2. Grant a permit, for “free speech” purposes, to a large group in City Park, since the City would be sued if it were denied.
3. Attach 10 prerequisites, difficult if not impossible to comply with.
4. The kids show up believing they have a permit, braving the park pollution, and having the right to speak freely. As “free speech” includes not saying anything, it may also include sleeping between bouts of speaking.
5. The police/troops will attempt to enforce the arbitrary 11:00 pm curfew.
6. They will use tear gas and other mass control weapons. (Brown Note?)
7. Instant Chicago 1968.
8. Follow with multiple lawsuits against the City. Injury, denial of rights, etc.
9. City (that’s us folks) pays out millions for City transgressions.
   

Come on – folks, its only camping (and drinking and smoking dope and probably some singing and getting naked.) You don’t have to give them a permit, just don’t try to arrest them. Common sense must prevail.