Purdue News

June 21, 2004

Prof: Don't fear political protests, welcome democratic process

What's more important to the American public: the right to protest or feeling safe?

Americans will have to answer that question as protesters prepare for the Democratic and Republican national conventions this summer, says a Purdue University professor who studies political protests.

"Freedom of speech and the right to protest has been the foundation of America's most protected freedoms, but how will protesting be received by Americans in a post-9/11 world this election season?" asks Rachel Einwohner, associate professor of sociology.

Groups are already applying for protest permits for the conventions. The Democratic National Convention starts July 26 in Boston, and the Republican National Convention begins Aug. 30 in New York City.

"Even though life has changed since 9/11, we need to remind Americans that protest is OK," Einwohner says. "If we see a lot of protests happening at the conventions this summer, Americans should not worry. It's actually good that people are aware of the world around them and are exercising their right to dissent. It's a sign that our democracy is healthy."

Einwohner also can talk about protesters' strategic decisions.

"Research shows that protesters are strategic and always think critically about what they are trying to accomplish," she says. "It will be interesting to see how protesters use, or avoid, images from 9/11 or the war of terror in their demonstrations this summer."

CONTACT: Einwohner, (765) 494-4696, einwohnerr@soc.purdue.edu