George -

I do not agree that getting arrested shows a more devoted person to a cause.

I wonder how quickly someone would feel if she or he were convicted of something in which he or she did not do? I was arrested when I was beaten up by movie theatre customers. I was not recognized as a victom. Therefore, I think trying to make a statement of purpose and getting arrested and taken to the police station is not a moment of celebration.

When I was college, I did have those thoughts that standing up for a cause to the point of arrest was something I wanted to achieve in my future. Reality of conviction has woken up from that idealist notion. I remember telling some Dave Norris supporters that getting arrested for free speech has too many complications and could cause more damage to self or the cause's reputation.

I know that my opinion might offend some, but let it be a warning: You do not want to be seen as aggressive or arguementative.

Tammy Londeree (electronic mail, March 6, 2007)