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A group of San Antonio activists I interviewed yesterday, say their city council passed an ordinance that puts a price on free speech.
According to the website, www.esperanzacenter.org/freespeech; on Nov. 29th, 2007, the SA Mayor and City Council passed an ordinance requiring groups to pay the cost of traffic barriers, police officers, and clean-up for their city events, which can amount to $15K or more.
The website goes on to say
While the original goal of this ordinance was to streamline the permit and fee process for "Parades, Runs, Walks, and Related Events", concerns over limitations of our First Amendment rights have become a key point.
Although the ordinance passed says that the City will pay for the first $3000 of any "First Amendment Activities" on the streets, the remaining costs could still easily prevent free speech marches from occurring.
The group has sponsored bumper stickers saying "Our Streets Will Not Be Silenced", both in English and Spanish.
My Take: This ordinance is concerning and could likely be interpreted as a violation of citizens' rights to free speech and assemply. It clearly adds a heavy burden on any group looking to protest or march. Likely only corporate-backed groups will be able to afford these fees. It could destroy grassroots efforts.
What do you think? Is the SA City Council violating citizen's First Amendment rights?
Keep in mind, this ordinance might be coming to your city next. What if they did this in Austin? Or in your city? What side would you take?
Best,
David Kobierowski
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