Signs of Contradiction

by Andrew Patchan

The Anti-Defamation League recently issued a report warning of increased “anti-government hostility” in response to the policy initiatives of the Obama White House and Democrat controlled Congress. The report claims this hostility manifests itself in forms “ranging incivility in public forums to acts of intimidation and violence” – listing “Tea Party” protests and town-hall demonstrations as examples of extremist activity. The participants of such demonstrations are characterized as dangerous conspiracy theorists with ties to the militia-movement. The ADL ignores the fact that the so called extremists who attend the aforementioned demonstrations have been remarkably peaceful; the only violent outbreaks at the tea parties or town-hall meetings have been instigated by left-wing, pro-Obama groups.

The latest incidence of violence perpetrated against conservative activists occurred on November 14 in Ft. Lauderdale, when a group of pro-amnesty demonstrators assaulted a sixty-two year member of Floridians for Immigration Enforcement. By portraying Americans who peacefully exercise their first amendment rights as dangerous extremists, the ADL only widens ideological rifts in the political landscape – increasing the risk of future violence targeting right-wing activists. Conservatives should read this report, and educate themselves about the absurd charges being levied against grass-roots organizers. More importantly, conservatives must be sure to act in a dignified manner, and alert the public when liberal groups use violence to hinder free speech.