To the editor:

I just want to make it very clear that Jonathan Affalter does not speak for most of the people in Lawrence, considering how free-minded and open most Lawrence residents are.

I don’t believe in anarchism. But I do believe that in the First Amendment we are guaranteed the right to assemble and freedom of speech. This protest wasn’t about rebelling against a power just to revolt. The facts are, the people who attended that dinner have done some irrefutable damage and should not be praised for the negative effects their actions have caused.

I do not believe police brutality can ever be justified. Police officers are supposed to be there to protect us. Not to hit us and push around like sixth-grade bullies just because they have a badge and don’t agree with what a group of people are saying. Who are we to turn to, when our only supposed source of protection is assaulting members of the community?

I have met many anarchists, and believe me, they are very intelligent open-minded people. They aren’t about wreaking havoc on a town just to get a rise. They are merely trying to open others’ eyes to the injustices in the world. Open your eyes, Jonathan Affalter. Your great American heroes are nothing but murderers and frauds, cowering behind a line of soldiers who lose their lives on a daily basis for oil and land.

I believe I speak for many when I say, anarchists are welcome in this town, and are a benefit to our planet.

Ashley Snyder,

Lawrence