July 4th, 2003
POLICE ASSAULT THE POOR AT THE GATES OF THE NEW CONSTITUTION CENTER.

Members of the Kensington Welfare Rights Union marched to demand the
rights of America's poor yesterday at the opening celebration of the
Constitution Center at 7th and Arch streets.  In a single file, led by
children, they carried their own mattresses painted with pleas for
economic human rights.

Lines of park rangers, city police and mint guards formed a barrier to
prevent the poor and homeless families from entering the public
gathering at the Center.  Singing "we will not be moved," families
locked arms and refused to leave the public sidewalk.

KWRU director Cheri Honkala said: "While freedom and democracy are
celebrated today, the poor still live in terror, with no right to
healthcare, food, affordable housing, or a job at a living wage. They
are trying to drown out our voices, but we will be heard. "  Police
selected KWRU leaders Cheri Honkala and Galen Tyler for arrest, after
they attempted to present a Declaration of Economic Human Rights for
display at the newly opened Constitution Center.

Since its founding 12 years ago, the Kensington Welfare Rights Union
has maintained a strict policy of nonviolence.