By State Representative, Leon D. Young
Leon D. Young
Everyday at 12 o’clock noon, the Solidarity Singers gather in the Capitol Rotunda, without fail, and regale denizens of the building with their shouts, chants and songs. This daily protest arises out the public’s distain for Scott Walker’s decision to severely limit the collective bargaining rights for most public employees.
Not everyone at the Capitol is enamored by this daily display of Democracy. Democrats, who stood in solidarity with pubic employees during the Walker power grab, welcome the revelers. Republicans, on the other hand, dread this daily reminder and try to shield themselves from the deafening din by closing the outer hallway doors that lead to their offices.
Walker and his Republican colleagues have attempted to quell these repeated demonstrations. Recently, they tried to limit protester access by requiring groups of four or more people to obtain permits for all activity and displays in state buildings. Moreover, permit requests would have to be made at least 72 hours in advance.
This administration’s desire to stifle the voices of opposition does not stop there. They have also set forth a rule that requires permits for 100 or more people outside the Capitol and another rule that allows officials to charge groups holding demonstrations for costs of having extra police on hand.
True enough, Walker ’s administration has moved away from its earlier position somewhat relative to these new rules for public rallies. But clearly, they are feeling the heat.
From all indications, it’s beginning to look a lot like there will be recall elections in 2012 for Scott Walker, the Lt. Governor and his four Republican henchmen in the Senate.
And, to all a good night.