One rule for some protestors, another for the others

Dear Editor,

Although not a huge fan or participant in Volvo-Mania, I did enjoy Hypnotic Brass, the Apposite Art Exhibit and the view from the Ferris wheel. What surpised me was the Sea Shepherd stall. As a whale loving tree hugger I know they are controversial. Considered exemplary sea activists by some-- they are reviled by others--and as memory serves me they are considered eco-terrorists by the US government. They are, by their own admission, a radical group. It's grand they were there but regardless if you support their actions or not--it's a little confusing as to why they had a presence at the conservative venue of the Volvo Ocean Race Global Village.

Confusing because so many caring protestors locally (and all around Ireland) altho peaceful, have either been criminalised or condemned at Galway City Council meetings or are currently being accused and considered the lowest of the low. I guess the question is: Why is direct action, civil disobedience and protest acceptable and respectable as long as it is taking place elsewhere?

Regards,

Muir Conway