In September of '07 I posted a diarypraising William and Lynn McLean of their unwaivering determination in protesting in Hattiesburg, MS consistantly for two years. It's been two and a half years now of peaceful protest with little incident. On March 5th, 2008 a police officer approached the protesters and insisted the signs be put down. When McLean asked what would be done if he did not comply he was arrested.
From my original diary recognizing their efforts -
Since September of 2005 on every first Wednesday of the month, William and Lynn McLean have been at the corner of Hardy and US Hwy 49 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in protest of the illegal and dishonest invasion of Iraq and to promote peace. The protest has also been joined on occasion by local church members and USM students.
CBS 22 in south Mississippi followed up on the March 5th, 2008 arrest of Mr. McLean for "disorderly conduct." Watch the report on youtube here.
"The McLean's say their protest is a peaceful one, but on March 5th an officer pulled onto the scene and everything changed."
...
"McLean was placed in restraints for his safety and our safety."
Charges have since been dropped. The court dropped the charges contingent on Mr. McLean "keeping out of trouble" for 6 months. McLean has resolved to continue protesting.
The McLeans cite and give kudos to Mark Ely (Chairman, Board of Directors Center for Human Rights and Civil Liberties University of Southern Mississippi Statement) for his recent editorial statement in the local paper regarding the event and the broader implications on civil liberites.
See the article here!