After the assassination of Dr. Tiller, Operation Rescue president Troy Newman has worked hard to try to make it very clear that his organization does not support violent action against abortion providers. That being said, if he is trying to distance himself and his organzation from violent anti-choice individuals, why is he friends with them on Facebook? Christina Page posted an illuminating piece today on the Huffington Post on Newman's dangerous Facebook friends. Page recently had an online debate with Newman.While Newman may say that violence isn't the right action to take against abortion providers, his friends certainly feel that it is the only option. I know that Facebook seems like a harmless social networking tool, but time and time again we've seen how much trouble can come from who you are friends with and what content is posted on your Facebook page. Page says that if Newman is truly trying to put forth an image that is non-violent (although you can certainly argue about his tactics), he needs to cease all contact with violent extremists.
What do you all think about this? How serious do you think it means to be Facebook friends with someone? What does this say about Newman, Operation Rescue, and how serious they are about non-violent protest?
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1 comment:
Yes! It is insane that Newman would openly advertise who his supporters are. As I looked through his friends, all I could think was that I had better not see anyone I know on his friend list! I am almost tempted to friend him to see what his profile says, but that is taking it too far.
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