G20—Temporary Institution of A Military State in Pittsburgh

Posted by

Jacqui
About Jacqui

October 28, 2009

As Deborah and I drove into town on September 24^th for the day’s meetings/activities, we did so with a mild sense of trepidation as we heard so much on the local news about the level of policing and restricted access to the city. Bridges, highways, and many streets were closed. Amtrak and Greyhound were not being allowed to stop in the city. There was rampant fear-mongering conveying the notion that without strict lockdown, the city would be overrun with rabid activists with evil intentions. We even saw a billboard on a church calling for prayers for the safety of the city! Outside of the protected perimeter, streets were also eerily quiet and empty as people stayed home out of fear and cautioning from “the authorities.”

Police and other officials were out in what appeared to be full riot gear. Cars were stopped. Folks were detained. The idea that felt pervasive was that those of us who consider ourselves to be defenders of human rights were, in this context, being perceived as mischief-makers hell bent on baseless destruction. It was quite intense and not at all reflective of the “liberties” on which we as a nation pride ourselves.

With 4000 police and 2000 national guard members, it was the biggest display of military force in PA since the 1892 crackdown on the steelworkers strike.

For more information on G-20 events, visit.