USA TODAY International Edition
Free spirit protesters camp in park
Eric and Sue Lee sat comfortably under the shade of a tree in front of their pitched tent in FDR Park just outside Wells Fargo Center, where the night before Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders and first lady Michelle Obama gave rousing opening night speeches at the Democratic National Convention.
The Lees are among a few dozen people camping there during the convention, in a tent village they are calling “OccupyPirate Camp.” Although camping is prohibited there, police have thus far taken no action to remove them from the park, one of the main protest zones during the four- day convention.
“The police came and said we are not supposed to be camping here, but they are allowing it for now,” said Sue Lee, 61. “They said that could change hour by hour. But if they kick us out, what will we do with our stuff?”
The spartan accommodations and sweltering heat don’t bother the retired Arizona couple, who have been road tripping across the country on a months- long journey. They decided to come to Philadelphia to support Sanders.
“I see all the other presidential candidates as a choice between Tweedledee and Tweedledum,” Eric Lee, 63, said. “He’s different than the other business- as- usual candidates.”
Lee isn’t usually politically active but said he eventually warmed to his wife’s pro- Bernie attitude. Still, Lee said he doesn’t plan to vote this November, citing his displeasure with each major party’s candidate.
If Sanders isn’t on the ticket, Sue Lee said, the people in the camp are planning to switch to the Green Party. “I have grandchildren, and the planet is being destroyed by fracking,” she said.
The pair, who are both trained nurses, traveled east to help a dozen or so folks make the journey here from Washington, D. C., in a preconvention march. They’re also providing medical services to protesters throughout the week’s events.
Eric Lee appreciates the communal attitude and positive outlook shared by many campers. Everyone contributes supplies, shares food and engages in lively political discussions.
Monday’s thunderstorm, Eric Lee said, provided a nice showering opportunity — a rare treat. “My wife just walked around last night in the rain.” Lee said. “It’s a hippie shower.”