Passionate but Peaceful

The protesters in Madison were loud and insistent — and sometimes colorful. They chanted. They sang. They beat drums.

They were peaceful.

The demonstrations over the past week, but especially on Saturday, were an example of democracy at its finest.

Many of those gathered at the Capitol opposed provisions in Gov. Scott Walker's budget repair bill that strip public employees of almost all their bargaining rights. Others, including those at a large tea party rally, supported the governor.

"If the eyes of the nation and the world are truly upon us, then I think we've been able to show that democracy can work well even if those who have passionate views on different sides come together," said Joel DeSpain, a spokesman for the Madison Police Department.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Capitol Police, Department of Natural Resources wardens and members of other agencies worked seamlessly to keep both sides safe.

To be sure, some of the street theater was absurd.

There were obnoxious signs, including what has by now become de rigueur among certain Walker opponents: comparing the governor to Adolf Hitler or ousted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. And there were doctors in lab coats scribbling excuses for any protester whose employer might demand one. "Stress" was the diagnosis du jour for these protesting physicians who might want to stick to their regular hours back at the office. The Wisconsin Medical Society condemned the practice.

But these are minor complaints. Most of the people on the people's square disagreed without being disagreeable. As author Brad Thor, who spoke at the tea party rally, said, it was a "great story for democracy. People on that side. People on this side. And it's all peaceful."

Well done.

REPRINTED FROM THE MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL.

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