Green Left free speech campaign
By Melanie Sjoberg
ADELAIDE — Following attempts to ban Green Left Weekly distribution in Rundle Mall over the past two months and in Central Markets since May 8, GLW sellers and supporters are fighting back.
A blitz was conducted at the markets on May 15, offering people free back issues and a leaflet which explains the free speech campaign and asks supporters to contact the Adelaide council, and the management of the mall and market.
The council has advised Green Left that a permit costing $10 per person per day is necessary to distribute GLW in Rundle Mall. The letter stated that GLW sellers should be of neat appearance, wear a bib and a number to identify themselves, and keep the papers in a display receptacle.
Central Market management has yet to confirm in writing the ban on GLW, however sellers were informed by an office worker and security guards that the ban was placed on the paper because it is political.
Support has been offered from wide range of groups and individuals. Regular buyers disgusted by the ban inundated the market management with phone calls.
The United Trades and Labor Council passed a motion at its May 15 meeting condemning the council and stating that the ban is an infringement of democratic rights. The UTLC is to write to the council calling for GLW to be allowed to be sold in the streets and at the market.
The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union has said it is prepared to conduct a campaign at the market, the Christian Romero Group has offered financial and moral support, and a Flinders University lecturer has offered to circulate a letter amongst his colleagues to be faxed to the council and market management.
Supporters can contact GLW on 8231 6982. Protests can be phoned to Adelaide City Council on 8203 7442, Central Market management on 8203 7494 and Rundle Mall management on 8203 7437.