Denver’s proposed changes to its permitting process for parks and parades drew strong criticism Friday from the American Civil Liberties Union and the local protest group Re-create 68, when both groups submitted extensive written comments to city officials.
As expected, a chief concern was the priority system government gives itself for permits. The changes are being made in anticipation of the 2008 Democratic National Convention but would remain in place after the event, if the City Council approves the new measures in January.
The changes would give government agencies that apply for permits an automatic lock on them.
“We don’t believe that is what the Constitution allows, nor, frankly, is it what we expected from city officials who have repeatedly pledged to respect free-speech rights,” wrote ACLU attorney Taylor Pendergrass in a release.
Glenn Spagnuolo, a Re-create 68 organizer, said he would ask City Council members to allow for a public-comment period during the council’s next meeting, when it is to review the proposals.
