Saturday, November 5, 2005

Basso and Baker Double Header

Saturday afternoon, activists from Win Animal Rights started a double header in memory of animal liberator, Barry Horne. The constant protests at Basso's Fur Salon are apparently hitting the mark. When we arrived the place was swarming with police officers and an NYPD squad car was parked on the sidewalk in front of Basso's door. This will show you the lengths that the NYPD will go to in order to protect their pad.

The police presence made an otherwise small and peaceful demo, louder and more aggressive than it would have been otherwise. The four police officers who lined Basso's showcase window did nothing but block the disgusting fur "fashions" meant to entice the would be barbarian shopper. The flashing lights and the presence of high-ranking NYPD officers coupled with the fact that they restricted sidewalk traffic and blocked a bus stop worked to our advantage. We had a captive audience focused on the protest, which couldn't see in Basso's store even if they wanted to. The set up was so good that we stayed 30 minutes beyond closing. When will they ever learn?

After a short break, we headed up to Central Park for a candlelight vigil at the Baker's. The protest was solemn and quiet. Activists held candles and a 15' banner, which read "Andrew Baker Puppy Killer". Baker got a good look at the protest and banner as he was dropped off by limousine and passed within a few feet of the demonstration.

Following the sighting, the silent protest turned loud and boisterous as activists worked to deliver their message to Baker. When the chanting began the building lit up like a Christmas tree and many looked out of their windows to see what was going on. We were gratified when neighbors welcomed us back to the "hood" and told us to keep up the good work. The night was ended with a rousing chorus of "WE WILL NEVER BACK DOWN, UNTIL THEY STOP THE KILLING"