Democracy Spring Protest Takes Place Mostly In D.C., Over 1200 People Voluntarily Arrested

Introduction

     This week, I wanted to do a write-up on the Democracy Spring protest that mostly happened over the past week at the U.S. Capital in Washington, D.C. I haven't heard much about it until late last week, and only from Russia Today. With that in mind, I have learned quite a bit about it since then.

What is it, and how did it start?

     Democracy Spring is a coalition of progressive (and pro-Bernie Sanders) groups (100, according to one source) aimed at reducing economic influence in American politics, and promoting voter rights. The protest started with a 10-day, 140-mile march from Philadelphia, PA , to Washington, D.C. on April 2nd, 2016.

What are their goals/demands?

     Democracy Spring wanted to make sure that the U.S. government passes acts and amendments that were in relation to voters' rights and eliminating money in politics. They also wanted to make sure that the Supreme Court confirms a nominee that would ensure political equality. They wanted government-funded vouchers for small donors. Most important, though, is that they wanted to resonate with those who think that the system is rigged.

Arrests

     Approximately 1,240 protesters were voluntarily arrested and fined. They chose to be charged with a misdemeanor and fined for $50. Among those who were arrested were: Cenk Uygur (political activist and co-host of "The Young Turks"), Rosario Dawson (actress), and Lee Camp (stand-up comedian and host of "Redacted Tonight" and its spin-off "Redacted Tonight V.I.P.").

My Opinion

     I like what the coalition behind Democracy Spring stands for, and appreciate that so many people were willing to be arrested in order to stand up for their cause (and, in a way, prove one of their main points). However, they're too centralized, and they're too pro-Bernie Sanders. I feel that they could've gone 1-2 weeks longer to help spread their message more (and maybe get some mainstream coverage). Other than all of that, I'd say they did a great job!

Sources

1. http://www.democracyspring.org/
2. http://dcist.com/2016/04/democracy_spring_caps_off_week_of_d.php
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democracy_Spring
4. http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2016/04/16/hundreds-democracy-spring-protesters-arrested-dc/83123326/
5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aYVLfziKu0