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Whereas: Peaceful political expression is a fundamental right protected under the United States and Pennsylvania Constitutions, and the free exercise of the First Amendment rights of speech, association and assembly and enforcement of Fourth Amendment rights against unlawful search and seizure is essential for residents of and visitors to the City of Pittsburgh; and
Whereas: The City of Pittsburgh has consistently fostered a long tradition that celebrates robust public discussion of issues, including the unfettered expression of opinion at public demonstrations; and
Whereas: Recent demonstrators at large political events in other cities have been undermined by questionable police practices and violations of civil liberties; and
Whereas: In September, 2009, the International Coal Conference and the G20 Summit will draw a broad group of citizens, residents and visitors with differing viewpoints and opinions to engage in various forms of democratic public expression in Pittsburgh; and
Whereas: The Pittsburgh City Council believes there is no inherent conflict between the City's duties to secure public safety and also to protect constitutionally guaranteed political activity;
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Therefore be it resolved: That the Pittsburgh City Council calls upon the City to promote successful high profile events by ensuring:
1. reasonable and prompt action on permit applications for public demonstrations during the events;
2. that decision-making authority for policing public demonstrations remains under the leadership and jurisdiction of local authorities to the greatest extent possible;
3. appropriate training in Constitutional Rights for those policing public demonstrations;
4. access to as well as freedom of movement at public demonstrations;
5. that public demonstrations can take place within sight and sound of t...
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