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Notes from Seattle, October 27th, 2007 |
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Editors Note: What follows are observations from Scott M. Eilers on his experiences attending the anti-war protest in Seattle dressed in professional attire as part of Serious Change.
Having arrived in Seattle on Saturday morning by charter bus with about 300 others from Oregon, we were greeted by a picturesque day and the sounds of the marchers preparing. After assisting a few groups with their signage, I was struck most by the range of viewpoints represented by the various marchers and their signage. The only thing holding so many people with so many different interests together (even just for an afternoon) is a disgust with the status quo and the absurdity of this war. I couldn’t help but think that a more unified image might make a larger impact with the public. On the other hand, conformist probably wouldn’t have come out at all.
My day actually started some hours earlier in Portland when I overheard an older gentlemen (a demographic well represented) comment that perhaps we could send a better message if everyone “dressed upâ€. I unbuttoned my over coat far enough for him to notice my suit, and struck up a conversation. While we were speaking, I overheard two negative comments about my attire. I was pointed out by a passerby to their companion as an example of someone “from the other side†and another accused me of being a politician. When attempted to explain my/our position and to hand out flyers, most people agreed with the concept, but all had a “reason†why they couldn’t wear a suit (the most common being that they only own one). I also had with me pictures of MLK and marchers from the Civil Rights movements, and more recently the lawyers in Pakistan. The visual reminder that this isn’t the first time someone dressed professionally in such a setting seemed to disarm any who would listen.
Once in Seattle, there were similar comments made, but mostly I noticed that I got just as many snapshots taken of me and second looks as the people who had gone to apparently great lengths with their attire. I should point out that a button down shirt and tie take far less time to prepare than giant paper-mache costumes. I also noticed at least one other individual in a suit. I was unable to reach him, but did notice his picture on the pdxpeace.org web site.
My thoughts by the end of the day were returning to the seeming futility of changing any minds through such action, as some of the speakers were uninspiring and the rally seemed to just “peter outâ€. (I will defend your right to speak your mind to the death, but PLEASE speak it coherently!) On the other hand, all movements start some where, with someone. I try these days to remind myself: Don’t ask how to get 1 million backsides out of their chairs – start with the one you're sitting on.
Scott M. Eilers originally hails from the Midwest, calling Chicago home until earlier this year. He is currently in Eugene, Oregon planning the next move for him self, his society, and world.
These are great observations, and ones that I've personally experienced in other locations as well. As Scott points out, these tactics aren't new. Dressing up to protest was used effectively during the civil rights era, and is still used by unions today. I think people are very receptive to the idea once they understand it a bit, and I really feel it has broad appeal and the potential to make protests that much more effective.
That said, protesting should be the first step in the process, not the last. There needs to be follow up, via lobbying, letter writing, primary challenges, etc… I hope Serious Change can help with those aspects of the movement as well.