Citizens Protest Blackwater West in San Diego

Several months ago, it was learned that Congressman Duncan Hunter had pulled strings and prevailed upon the County Board of Supervisors to consider a mercenary training camp in San Diego's pristine east county area. This was done without any public scrutiny. Objectioins were raised and it was discovered that the area in question was not in Hunter's district at all, but in Congressman Bob Filner's.

When a public hearing was finally held, a heavily armed Sheriff's force, unprescedented in San Diego, showed up to "control" the ordinary citizens who came to this meeting. It appeared to many long time San Diego residents that a BLACKWATER audition was being held that day. Biceps bulging through rolled up sleeves, extra heavy bullets strung over the deputy's shoulders, and even San Diego city police got into the action to control access to the meeting.

Since then, thanks to the efforts of one Portrero planning member and local activists from many groups, including Veterans for Peace, the Peace Resource Center and Congressman Bob Filner, a strong coalition has developed. Environmental studies have been demanded and a recall against the Portrero planning board has begun.

Yesterday a rally was held and a march to the gates of the proposed location took place. This was the final event in a weekend long campout at the Portrero Community Park. There were workshops and power point presentations. It was great to see a melding of east county locals and others who live in the city come together in a common goal. We all love our county and for many reasons, feel that BLACKWATER is not a neighbor that we want.

Flicker slide show prepared by Peter Lucas.

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