So I went to Townhall at UCLA on Friday, August 21, 2009 with Rep Henry Waxman.
The topic was climate change/Cap and Trade, but most people who came seemed to be interested in healthcare reform. I signed-up for the event on UCLA's website on August 8th, but was still way down on the wait list even at that time, so didn't make it in. But no matter, I knew I would see a lot outside as well.
The people in favor of healthcare reform GREATLY outnumbered those against. There were 2 pens for protesters outside the event. One was completely full with people chanting and carrying signs in favor of reform. Some supported a public option, while others still demanded single payer (which is my desire as well). But they all wanted change.
The other pen only had a few anti-reform or anti_cap and trade types, and a few pro-reform folks who spilled over from the other pen. While attitudes differed and cops were present, no one felt they HAD to keep the group separate...and I witnessed people talking to each other rather than just yelling at each other. I doubt minds were changed, but maybe people saw the opposition as real people and not merely caricatures.
And of course...the cult of Lyndon LaRouche was present. They seem to me to be the Westboro Baptist Church of politics. They go where there is media and say the most offensive stuff to get coverage. And everyone manning their tables were people of color...which I doubt reflects the average make up of the group. But they offended many people as they planned to do.
Near the end of the "protest" (it wasn't really a protest...just people gathered to let it be known what they support), I saw 2 different trolls/comedians about. I found them funny. Protests need to not be all srs bsns....lulz need to be had as well.
Most seemed to get the joke and played along...others did not. I know who I would rather hang out with.
But here are some pics and vids to give you a better idea of the event.
Here is a overview of the action outside the townhall:
And here is the comic relief portion of the event. You will enjoy.:
The entire set of pics is located here:
http://www.flickr.com/...