Palin protesters were respectful and civil

In response to Tim Moore’s letter (Dec. 29, 2009): I disagree wholeheartedly with your characterization of the Bonner County Democrats’ intent and actions at the Sarah Palin event.

First, your accusation that I, as chairperson “decided to make a non-political book signing into a tasteless and ugly political statement,” is as far from my intention to rally at the event as Wasilla is from Sandpoint.

The four of us quietly and respectfully carried signs that spelled out what our local Democrats value: human rights, universal health care, clean environment — values we believe Ms. Palin does not share according to her book, speeches and Facebook postings. I made an anti-Sarah PAC sign when I learned that photos taken at the book signings were being sold to finance “Sarah Palin’s Official PAC,” which clearly states it supports the Republican Party. Therefore, the event was somewhat political.

Second, I vehemently dispute your opinion that we were there to “be disrespectful and disruptive.”

We were very careful to stay on one side of the sidewalk so as not to impede walkers, to whom we said hello and with whom we had a couple of very civil discussions. People called us names, some folks yelled pretty nasty words at us. One of my people became angry, but we calmed him down and continued our peaceful assembly. There were other folks at the event, showing their displeasure about Gov. Palin, who were not part of the Bonner County Democrats.

More than 100 people have contacted me personally in support of our little group demonstration. I also want to thank Police Chief Mark Lockwood for his comment in the article — now that was classy.

LAURA BRY

Sandpoint

Chairperson

Bonner County Democratic

Central Committee