Protesters Swarm Tar Sands Blockade & Lock Down Machinery

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As the Republican National Convention nears, I have been concerning myself with logistics, networking, and action-planning. Being an activist who resides in the host city, I have by default turned into one of many hosts for the hordes of protesters that will be flooding into Tampa. One of the questions we have had to ask ourselves is “How is our city different and what pros and cons do these differences bring to the table?”. The answer that concerned us most is our climate. It’s hot. It’s humid. It’s sunny. It’s the middle of summer and protesters will be outside for hours on end, many of whom are not from here and therefore not used to Florida’s heat. 

This is a huge hindrance for anyone interested in participating in a black bloc, which requires layers of clothing (for inconspicuous getaways) and of course black, which attracts heat and sunlight. Now imagine running around, expending every last ounce of energy in all that gear. Heat strokes are bound to happen and you’d be crazy to think that an EMS is going to be sent into that fray to save “violent”, bear-caught anarchists.

While I defend actions such as black blocs and the ideologies behind them, the above scenario is what has caused myself and others to ask for protesters at the RNC to not have a black bloc. The last thing any of us want are severe cases of dehydration and heat stroke. And when I say severe I say it with fatalities in mind. Believe me, this is not a hyperbole. People die each year from heat-related illnesses in our state.    

Besides, they’re expecting us to black bloc. It’s a worn out method; almost boring at this point. Why not flex our creative muscles and throw them for a loop? Instead of the same old images of black clad persons smashing in windows, let’s see something a little different, something that will make this convention stand apart from all the others. Ideas are circulating. All we’re asking is that you keep your eyes, ears, and wardrobes open.

The First Amendment’s Retirement Party hosted by Occupy Tampa

In response to Tampa City Council voting in the “Event Zone” ordinance for the Republican National Convention.

Cake & punch courtesy of Tampa Food Not Bombs.

Occupy Wall Street Spring Training

So much awesome.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!  WE NEED TO MAKE THIS GO VIRAL! 

Looking for big names, anarchist marching bands, noise artists, folk musicians, anyone, to come play at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, FL the week of August 27th and/or the Food Not Bombs World Gathering August 20th-26th before the convention. 

Let’s raise some hell and have a counter-convention like no other!  Contact tampafnb@gmail.com to participate or if you have any further inquiries. 

Riots Erupt in Montreal Over Tuition Hikes

Protests were initially peaceful until police started arresting innocent people.

Occupy Wall Street sleeping on Wall St. sidewalk outside of stock exchange.