On Nov. 18, San Francisco ANSWER Coalition (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism) activists joined a counter demonstration to protest a Hillary Clinton fundraiser organized by the National Defense Industrial Association and hosted at the Vanguard Properties building.
The National Defense Industrial Association’s mission statement is to advocate “cutting-edge technology and superior weapons, equipment, training, and support for the War-Fighter and First Responder.”
Vanguard Properties is a wealthy real estate speculation firm and a profiteer of the gentrification taking place in San Francisco. The Vanguard Building is located in the heart of the Mission District, a traditionally working class area that is currently being consumed with gentrification and is also across the street to the ANSWER office.
Code Pink called the action and was joined by other progressive organizations, like World Can’t Wait. Community members also joined the protest. ANSWER activists quickly brought out bullhorns and anti-war placards to protest Clinton’s presence.
Some of the ultra-wealthy supporters of Clinton arrogantly came out onto the steps of the building with glasses of champagne in hand to mock the protestors. Police failed to fool the protestors by setting up barricades at the front entrance while arranging to bring Clinton in through a side door. They also attempted to intimidate protestors by giving false rules for public sidewalk protesting and lying about the sound ordinance.
Despite the lies and intimidation, protestors militantly chanted for the duration of Clinton’s luxurious dinner, joined by others who happened to be walking by.
The protestors sent a clear message to imperialist Senator Clinton: “The people’s movement will not let ruling class war criminals fundraise in their communities. No justice, no peace! Hillary off of Mission Street!”
