Occupy Richmond is not affiliated with the Richmond Tea Party in any way, shape or form. We disagree fundamentally on key issues. However, working towards a better future in which citizenship duties are taken seriously by the government requires us to stand up for the free speech rights of all citizens, regardless of their particular views.

To this end, the Occupy Richmond Media Work Group has released a statement on the audit of the Richmond Tea Party. On its own, an audit is just another bureaucratic hassle. Coupled with the raid on Occupy Richmond’s peaceful occupation, however, the timing of this audit seems like retaliation for criticism the Tea Party has leveled at the Mayor and the city. It’s just another troubling indicator that the city doesn’t understand or respect free speech, the United States Constitution, or an active and engaged citizenry.

You can find our official press release here along with all our press releases.