Response to Rev. Nate Walker's Statement on the One Life Crew show

Sir, there's a problem. The "professional security" that you are relying on to calm things down are long time friends with KSS members and despite the tensions that their members have created at shows, despite the desire from bands and show attendees to not have to deal with these idiots, that "security" has a deal with KSS saying that they can attend shows without anyone bothering them. KSS members responded by attacking people that they have had issues with. And recently, they have been seen at shows taking pictures of the crowd then asking around to find out who was who.

And do you remember that great job this same "professional security" did a few years back, by going around the neighborhood and chasing people away from the neighborhood who they felt didn't belong there, and the problems that caused? If you are going to defend the rights of those participating in this event, you have GOT to recognize the rights of those persons that were violated by your "professional security" during that show a few years ago. And yet you trust them to do the right thing?

As to your strategy, to have a one on one conversation with One Life Crew on camera and another with Trenton ARA behind closed doors so to speak is a HUGE insult! It is as if you are more concerned with the money the show could bring in as opposed to the opposition to the band - an opposition UU Churches share with those that are going to protest! You aren't even considering asking those who have the issues with the band (AND NOT JUST THOSE WHO WOULD ATTEND)to participate in that conversation. You don't know the band. It is not you with the issues. For God's sake, you said yourself that antifa is deliberately provoked to sell tickets! You mean to tell me that you are allowing that? The Unitarian Church could be held liable in court just as much as the band and promoters should anything happen at this show that causes people to be hurt. Security can only provide but so much security.

Sir, this statement is not going to go over well. You might have just made things worse. One Life Crew is a hate band, period. Their audience is comprised of those of those who promote a violent hate agenda, period. No one associated with the show cares about any of that. It is not about censorship. It is about common decency. It is about thinking that a UU Church would be a safe haven from the hate and racism that happens day after day outside its walls. What the hell is wrong with you?

Comments

Response from Rev. Nate Walker

Submitted by Rev. Nate Walker (not verified) on Thu, 05/28/2009 - 6:21am

Dear Kaba,

I received your public statement about your concerns and will be happy to speak with you about them. My cell is 215-701-9072. Would you like to discuss them?

I am sorry if anything that was said by me came across as an insult and would like to share with you the context of my decisions and to get your advice on how to proceed. I'm looking forward to learning more about what you have to say.

Peace,

Rev. Nathan C. Walker, Minister
First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
Call my cell phone (215) 701-9072
so we can practice the art of
Deep Listening & Loving Speech

In light of the meeting that

Submitted by Kaba (not verified) on Tue, 06/02/2009 - 11:47am

In light of the meeting that you had with Anti-Racist Action, let me just say thank you. I was one of the calls and I might have been a little off, but I am glad you were able to listen to those concerned.