Although the Republican National Convention did not even officially commence, the week began with an estimated 500,000 protestors, stretching through the streets of New York representing a myriad of interest groups, including environmental, gay rights, and immigration groups. But these were more subsets to the most predominant presence at the rally, the anti-war protestors. They held signs that voiced their opposition to Bush’s expressed rational for war in Iraq and the ongoing conflict that has erupted since its inception. “United for Peace and Justice” held the permit for the protest on Sunday. Their motto, “say no to the Bush agenda.”
Other groups present at the protest expressed criticism of the Bush administration’s conduct regarding more localized issues. The “Poor People’s Economic Human Rights Campaign” held a smaller protest at the Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, across the street from the United Nations. The group voiced concerns over the increase in Americans living below the poverty line, as well as the ongoing homeless epidemic and those living without healthcare.
“Still We Rise” and “Housing Works” are both HIV/AIDS advocacy groups who participated in the protests this week. They have accused the Bush administration of ignoring the ongoing AIDS epidemic and claim that the number of infections have increased since Bush began his presidency four years ago.
The environmental protection group “The Sierra Club” is holding an eight day vigil at the World Trade Center to bring awareness about pollution and detrimental health effects post-9/11.
All protests were monitored by hundreds of NYPD officers clad in riot gear. The NYPD has been present throughout the city to ensure the safety of the protestors and GOP supporters. Thus far, there have been over 500 arrests.
The official commencement of the Republican National Convention began on Monday, with Mayor Michael Bloomberg welcoming his party to his city. First daughters Jenna and Barbara Bush, former New York City Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani, and Arizona Senator John McCain were all present to welcome supporters and to kick off the three-day convention. The common focus of the first night was to refute the opposition’s sentiment on the war in Iraq and support of President Bush’s stance on the war on terror.
President Bush accepts the Republican Party’s nomination for a second term this coming Thursday, September 2. Bush is also scheduled to address the convention and the American public that day also.
