RNC: Anarchy in St. Paul

<p>The anarchists trying to stop the RNC are organized. Many, though, still don’t know what to do. They’ve got maps, code words, and a system of text messages that tries to coordinate blockades and gives updates on arrest numbers. Many of the activists seem to know sign language, and have a coded system of communication set up. Some wear the black masks and makeup, but others are wearing preppy, non-descript clothing chosen to throw off the police and blend in. One young woman I talked to said that today was “the first time I’ve brushed my hair in years.”</p>
<p>The blockades, however, seem to happen at random, sometimes at inopportune times. I saw one group block an empty delegate bus, stopping a group of anti-McCain, Ron Paul delegates in the process. The most successful action that I witnessed was a young man in a black mask who slashed the tires on a Fox News truck and then escaped safely into a crowd.</p>
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<a title=”Tear gas has been used” href=”http://http//ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hksHDv1i55R2qYI6dkmMm10uxZ0AD92U58MO2″ target=”_blank”>Tear gas has been used</a> and arrests have been made. A video of a protester roadblock can be seen below:</p>
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<em>For more of Utne.com’s ongoing coverage of the Republican National Convention, click </em>
<a title=”here” href=”/blogs/blog.aspx?blogid=30&tag=republican%20national%20convention” target=”_blank”>
<em>here</em>
</a>
<em>.</em>
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