PUEBLO's POSITION ON CRIMINALIZING SIDESHOW SPECTATORS

THE MAYOR WILL NOT STAND ON OAKLAND'S BACK TO REACH SACRAMENTO!

Mayor Brown's proposed criminalization of spectators of 'sideshows' has moved certain neighborhoods in Oakland one step closer to 'lockdown' status.

The language of the Ordinance is overly broad, and puts the City at risk of 'selective enforcement.' First Amendment protection of freedom of assembly is compromised and the burden of proving innocence falls on those cited --- without the benefit of a public defender.

This Draconian measure is being proposed despite proposals by Council members and others to provide an alternate venue for 'sideshow' events, which have been ignored.

There is no question that those cited and forced to pay hefty fines are likely to fall in the lower economic bracket and, most often, will be people of color.

Like the failed 'anti-loitering' ordinance that promised a miracle cure for street-level drug dealing, this measure is another reckless, quick fix promise intended to get those frustrated with sideshows off the Mayor's back, as he seeks the Office of Attorney General.