Peace Vigil Future Unclear As Trump Takes Down And Removes Tent
Washington DC—On Sunday afternoon, the Peace Vigil manager, Philipos Melaku-Bello reclined in the sun under a big red umbrella at the William Thomas Memorial Peace Vigil, reflecting on the whirlwind of events that occurred over the last three days.
Just hours earlier, the 44 year old Peace Vigil was raided by U.S. National Park Police which tore down and confiscated the blue tarp tent, its frame, and cinder block anchors. As word spread of the raid, scores of longtime DC activists, residents, and supporters sprang into action. They rolled in throughout the day, like an anonymous army of loyal supernumeraries, to sit with and support Philipos and the other activists who staff the Peace Vigil. Among them were attorneys, activists, friends, supporters, and former Vigil staff members.