The town hall disruptions have escalated to violence, and some are blaming both sides. We have to make clear that we are not the ones creating disturbance. But shouting for disrupters to shut up just feeds the disruption. Here's an idea: sing. Have organized groups that break into song whenever other groups break in screaming - silly, happy songs like "Zippity Do Dah", protest songs, ballads, gospel, whatever, nothing too angry though; we're trying to counter that. This achieves the following:
- It makes clear to the cameras that the anger is not unanimous, and makes the angry atmosphere the screamers seek harder to establish or maintain.
- It also makes clear that the health care proponents are not the ones trying to promote violence or disruption.
- It makes the screaming look ridiculous and like what it is: making noise. But it also shows that making noise need not be unpleasant.
- It will be hilarious to have the screamers tell us to shut up so they can be heard.
I realize this may push some people's "hippy" buttons, but you can't fight arson with fire. You need water.
I think this is worth a try and would like to know what others think.