The only complaint I have about the behavior of the activists is that they repeatedly laughed aloud in court when the judge, prosecution, or witnesses, said anything disagreeable. To be honest, it was very difficult to contain my own laughter on many occasions, and I will not say that it is “wrong” to laugh at silly things, but such negativity could not have sat well with the jurors. We have to remember that the state, in all of its ridiculousness, is not funny to most people, and that jurors probably perceive our laughter as highly disrespectful and childish. It doesn’t matter that the same and worse could be said for the state thugs, such behavior could unnecessarily taint the jury against Pete and Ademo, whom we are supposed to be their in support of. It is important to remember that there is the distinct possibility of a jail cell waiting at the end of this road for these guys. It would be awful if the fact that we couldn’t contain our laughter for one day were to tip the jury in the wrong direction. – Patrick Coleman
I agree with Patrick, who blogs over at Statists Anonymous. Take my buttinsky opinionating for what it’s worth – I wasn’t there. But if you’re trying to impress a jury, if you want them to think you’re not “a criminal”, then showing up with an unruly mob doesn’t reflect well on you. Put yourself in their shoes. They don’t understand the idea of not collectivizing people. For example, if they see you with someone who “looks like a druggie,” their estimation of you will decline.
If I had the chance to attend their trial, I would like to go in a suit. I would bring something to take notes with. I might even take Marc Stevens‘ advice and tell the bailiff that I was a reporter. Wearing a suit, to boot, and looking comfortable in it, would just blow their minds. Totally unexpected. A mind-fuck, if you will.
It’s important to be agile and to be aware of how your audience and your opponents view you. Keep them off guard.
btw I love the idea of not standing, wearing hats and applauding. A laugh can ridicule and denigrate. But remaining seated, wearing a hat and applauding are either neutral or uplifting.
What do you think?
