Today, a crew of Picture the Homeless members traveled to the Stated Meeting of the City Council. Less than a week ago, we had been told by building security that no one affiliated with our organization could attend a public meeting.

When attorney Norman Siegel contacted the security team, he had been referred to the Speaker's Office. After a long delay, he heard back from the Council's lawyers - who acknowledged that a policy of guilt by association was wrong, and promised that we would not be banned today or ever again.

"They knew that beforehand," said PTH Board Member Jean Rice. "We should not have to remind them of their constitutional restraints. It's another example of the neglect and disregard of the current administration."

Our awesome allies at the Global Action Project were honored as a 2010 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award Winner - and a bunch of them wore PTH buttons when the Speaker presented them with the proclamation! We're very grateful to them for their act of solidarity, and proud of them for their achievement.

"I certainly felt safe with all the security in there," said PTH member Darlene Bryant. "They had a lot more police in there than they have at past meetings. I had my own personal guard standing right by me."

One highlight of the meeting: when City Council member James Oddo had the floor, he made a joke about Intro 48. Christine Quin did not seem amused. Oddo said "I thought you would laugh at that!" She did not.

Flickr set:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/27985255@N05/sets/72157625412019760/