Tuesday November 21 (at the last meeting of the Memphis City Council), the administration of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland introduced an amendment to Section 12 of the Memphis Municipal Code of Ordinances, altering the administration of permits for Parades, Special Events, and Public Assemblies.
These newly introduced measures are the most sweeping changes to the permitting process since Memphis current form of government was enacted in 1962.
Details are still emerging and being interpreted. Many of the most apparent and harmful changes include:
•the enhanced criminalization of non-permitted demonstrations, civic actions, and protests
•a 90 day permit application requirement (currently 14 business days)
•sweeping powers granted specifically to the Director of Police, including a right of denial for all permits and full oversight over the issuance of any and all event permits
•newly broadened definitions for what is defined as an unlawful protest
•enhanced criminalization for the obstructing a roadway, sidewalk, or passageway
We must come together in opposition to this assault by Mayor Strickland on our first amendment rights to peaceably congregate, assemble, speak, and express ourselves without penalty or interference from our government.