michele posts that there's been about 100,000 people who have volunteered as "human shields" for Iraq. Interestingly, no one quite knows when they'll arrive. If they're anything like the anti-war protesters we've seen around here, my suspicion is that most of them won't.
Case in point: yesterday, we were on our way to do our weekly shopping, and there were a handful of anti-war protesters at the intersection near the mall. About 8-10 or so very earnest sign wavers. One actually had a sign with which I agreed--"Dissent is American" or something like that. Most were pretty predictable...it's about the oil (prompted Mike to start yelling out the window in his best Tin Man voice "Ooooiiiilll me!"), we're a democracy (no, we're a representative republic. Jesus, I wish you people would learn a little American history. I'll pass on the "rule of the mob" thanks), and something about pro-war people were being brainwashed by The Man TM. The latter sign was held by a young 20-ish kid, prompting Mike to yell "What the hell do you think these people are doing to you?"
Anyway, Mike & I spent some of our 1 1/2 hr. shopping trip plotting discussing a way to dress up in some "Men in Black" suits, park in the corner of the adjacent lot, and start photographing the protestors to see what they would do. He would run the camera, and I would stand to one side, acting as security, earpiece, sunglasses, the whole bit. We couldn't think of anyone who had a black Crown Victoria though, and were also a bit leery of whether or not we would get arrested, but thought it would be great fun.
We exit the shopping center, and are shocked to discover the protestors had abandoned their posts, and were gathered around several SUV's....I supposed patting themselves on the back & getting ready to go pick up their kids from soccer practice. What the hell? I guess they just don't make protestors like they used to...the Freedom March has turned into let's stand around waving our signs for a bit then adjourn to the nearest coffee shop before it becomes too inconvenient.
No serious follow-through, these folks. I think we'll see something similar with the "human shields," many have volunteered, but few show up.
Useful? Marginally. Idiots? Definitely.
Posted by Rita at January 5, 2003 10:45 AMPerhaps I should change my line of Useful Idiots T-shirts to Mariginally Useful Idiots.
You have given me an idea, though. I'm going to carry around a sign that says "No Blood for Liberation" to hang out my car window wherever I see protesters.
Posted by: michele on January 5, 2003 11:07 AMI like it! I keep expected to get heckled for my "Proud Parent of a Sailor" U.S. Navy bumpersticker...they apparently can't even gather enough indignation to do that.
Or maybe I just look like I'd kick their ass if they tried.
Posted by: rita on January 5, 2003 11:42 AMHello, Rita. Take a look at this at the Anti-Idiotarian Rottweiler's page. "Kill Kurds, Not Mumia!" indeed.
The "Human Shields" will NOT show up in Iraq, because there's no Starbuck's nearby--or, if there is, the anti-globalization morons will have gotten there first, and the lines there, as I witnessed in Washington, will be out the freakin' door.
Loyal Citizen Victor
Posted by: Loyal Citizen Victor on January 6, 2003 09:53 AMBut I thought Starbuck's was an instrument of oppression & symbolised the rape of the world's environment...oh yeah, they have a good triple mocha latte, right?
I could at least have a little respect for these people if they had the courage of their convictions. But they appear to say one thing, but do another...what's that word I'm looking for? I remember, hypocrites, that's it.
Posted by: rita on January 6, 2003 10:24 AMThose human shields should be more careful.
Posted by: The Comedian on January 10, 2003 12:54 AM