Originally Posted by genuinegirly

Perhaps a little off from what others are saying...

I see that Host started this debate with events that are currently unraveling in Berkeley. I'd like to mention these events, from the perspective of someone who observes the protest daily.

- A group that labels themselves as "Women for Peace" who have a very large hastily-painted pink truck park daily in front of a storefront in the downtown, one block from campus. They chant at the top of their lungs and wave signs, requesting peace. Occasionally a larger group of people forms, and they chant as well. More people join their cause during rush hour. A couple to several police officers are stationed across the street from the protesters, ready to deal with any problems as they arise. These folks are protesting the recruitment of marines. No other branch of the military is mentioned.

- One day we heard that the US Gov't had enough with these pesky protesters. Said they were going to cut funding to various worthwhile organizations located in the city limits, including the university. The Berkeley city counsel and the chancellor of the university quickly responded that they have nothing to do with the protest.

- Every once in a while, during lunch and at rush hour, Berkeley's streets are flooded with unarmed uniformed military, walking calmly down the sidewalks. They walk with impeccable posture and glare at everyone they pass, as if to assert their dominance.