Here is one very recent experience which was shared
with us.
"Hi all,
I am at "ground zero" and I just wanted to
let you all know that I wore my "I oppose the death
penalty" shirt all day today in Manhattan and
Staten Island which was a bit terrifying. It seems
dangerous to be non-violent, non-retributive. I could
definitely feel the disapproval in the stares. Often
defiant stares, long eye contact, a shake of the head,
or a smirk or crossed arms. No violence thank god or
harassment.
As far as the positives go, they have been well worth
it. Walking through Union Square many people stopped me
to read it. This is the shirt with the Amnesty
International candle and the long list of reasons to
oppose the death penalty on the back.. and it makes such
a good platform for being anti-war.
On my way to an anti-war rally, some people smiled,
or said "HI" or "i love your shirt".
But the best positive that I have witnessed so far..
is the warm, sometimes teary-eyed smiles that I have
been getting from those of Arab and East Asian descent.
In NYC many shop keepers are of Arab descent. It takes
people a bit to recognize what my shirt says and what it
means... it seems there is a pause.. though the WORDS
ARE HUGE on the front of the shirt.
Another great thing is that I know a family
personally that lost their son and are being quite vocal
about their anti-war response (they wrote that letter
"not in our son's name") and they are so
impressed and happy to be linked up with someone in the
anti-death penalty movement. I told them how inspiring
it was to hear from a victim's family and how powerful
those voices have been within our movement. They were
comforted by that I hope. :) so thanks for your
interest.
and let me know if you need anything.
xo katie."
