Maybe I’m wrong, but the Occupy movement seems to highlight a serious conflict between our right to assemble and petition, and contemporary laws and notions regarding public space. All too often, it seems, these rights can be trumped by the power of landlords and city officials. More here.
‘Public’ space laws vs. the right of assembly
The sad truth is that there is very little truly public space in this country.
The technocrats under Potus GeBu (Emperor Bush the Younger) even created “Free Speech Zones” in National Parks.