Ward One Councilman Seth Yurdin introduced an ordinance that protects the public’s right to free speech and assembly. “Public safety and free expression are not mutually exclusive,” said Yurdin. “This legislation creates clear procedures for protecting our First Amendment rights and provides that the City protects the safety of our residents.”
Typical protests and assemblies (those with 50 or less people and those that do not obstruct public rights of way or sidewalks) would require no permit from the City under the Ordinance. Yurdin explained that, recognizing legitimate public safety concerns, those organizing large assemblies and demonstrations on city streets, sidewalks, and parks would be required to give prior notice to the Police Department and submit a plan to avoid major disruptions. The ordinance also includes clear guidelines for when and how assemblies can be dispersed and prohibits the City from charging any permit fees.
“Under these guidelines, the public right to meaningful and robust expression is preserved. Our right to voice opinions and express our concerns in a public forum remains protected,” said Yurdin.
This legislation comes in response to yesterday’s announcement by the City administration that any group or individual planning on protesting or demonstrating at the upcoming U.S. Conference of Mayors events would be requested to pre-register with the City; would be limited to certain designated protest pens; and would be subject to search by police. Earlier today, Councilman Yurdin condemned these policies and called for their immediate review and change.
Said Yurdin, “At least from news accounts to-date, it does not appear that any violent protests are slated for Providence. While the Providence event appears that it will be well-attended, it is simply nowhere near the scale of large national events that have supported these restrictions.
“Sadly, there is much evidence to suggest that regulations put in effect by the City administration can be used an instrument for stifling and discouraging freedom of expression. It was under the Bush administration that their scope and use was widely expanded. The City of Providence should avoid implementing such measures unless they are clearly justified by the circumstances.”
The ordinance has been submitted to the City Clerk and will appear on the docket of the June 18th Providence City Council meeting.
For additional documents see:
Prior Press Release-
Yurdin Calls on Administration to Preserve Right to Free Speech, Assembly at upcoming U.S. Conference of Mayors, Introduces Ordinance
http://www.providenceri.com/CityCouncil/article.php?id=328
“Protestor Registration Form” - http://www.providenceri.com/government/Protestor%20Registration%20Form_FINAL.pdf
Note: Administered by the Traffic Engineering Department
