As citizens of this country it is alarming to witness law enforcement agencies treating civilians engaged in lawful demonstration as criminals. The First Amendment guarantees every American the right to free speech, assembly and to have their grievances addressed by their government.
We have watched law enforcement respond to peaceful demonstrations dressed in military uniforms, utilizing tear gas, rubber bullets, batons and intimidation to disperse legal gatherings and marches.
From college campuses to Main Street, USA the local law enforcement agencies have over reacted with force, making illegal arrests and detaining protesters with exorbitant bail.
We call for complete investigation of all cases of protester abuse and police brutality and to demilitarize our local police forces.