Multiple trustworthy sources have informed Torchlight that the organizers of the upcoming Racial Justice Summit are collaborating with the Pittsburgh police to arrange for the presence of undercover officers during the event. This move is in response to threats recently received from white supremacists, probably the same ones who attempted to disrupt an anti-war protest organized by Party for Socialism and Liberation two weeks ago.
Cooperating with cops to to combat fascists is a horrible idea for a host of reasons. At an event where hundreds of Black people and others who are particularly vulnerable to police violence will be gathered, it’s an even worse one. Just for starters, what happens if someone at the summit with an outstanding warrant is recognized by an undercover detective? Or someone on house arrest who is not supposed to leave their home except to go to work?
Beyond that, we should all remember that cops and Klan go hand in hand. There is a clear pattern in other cities of fascist provocateurs attacking vulnerable members of society – and then standing back and watching the cops arrest their victims. In Pittsburgh, police leaders are more cognizant of public relations than in many other towns, but this attitude does not necessarily extend to the rank and file. Remember the anti-Trump protest when the mayor had to intervene in person to keep riot cops from brutalizing the protesters? If the fascists do show up there’s no guarantee that the cops present won’t take their side.
Even the best case scenario, with no white supremacists and no arrests, inviting cops into discussions and strategic planning will give them information they may well use later to repress the very social movements that the summit aims to develop. There are many individuals and organizations in Pittsburgh who would have been happy to defend the summit against fascist incursions, particularly in light of the small number of potential nazis.
Anyone considering attending this year’s summit should be aware of the danger and take appropriate precautions. Torchlight apologizes for the lateness of this warning, but we were making sure we had the facts straight before we published. Anyone with more information is urged to contact us at torchlight@riseup.net.