AP. 20 September 2001. Terrorist Attacks Transform Protest. WASHINGTON -- Demonstrators who planned to protest the now-canceled meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund are still coming to the nation's capital this month. Now their protests will be about war and racism. The global financial organizations called off this year's annual meetings after last week's terrorist attacks. Groups representing most of the expected protesters also canceled their demonstrations, many citing a need to respect victims of the attacks. But the New York-based International Action Center and other groups still intend to assemble thousands of protesters across from the White House on Sept. 29. "We are demonstrating because of the imminent danger of a wider war, one that could result in the deaths of tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands more people in addition to the victims of the tragedy on Sept. 11," said organizer Richard Becker. He said the protesters also oppose the backlash against Arabs and Muslims and the Bush administration's efforts to expand police powers following the attack. While Becker said the group has a permit for the rally and march, it is uncertain whether increased security around the White House will allow it to go forward. Secret Service spokesman Jim Mackin said he had to consult with the National Park Service before commenting. The park service didn't immediately return calls seeking comment. District of Columbia Police Chief Charles Ramsey said he has no problem with the protesters as long as they're peaceful. "But it remains to be seen how they would be welcomed if they come to the city under the circumstances," Ramsey said. He said police would be watching for other demonstrators who, angered by challenges to the appearance of American unity, might clash with the anti-war protesters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barry Stoller http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ProletarianNews _______________________________________________ Leninist-International mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] To change your options or unsubscribe go to: http://lists.econ.utah.edu/mailman/listinfo/leninist-international
