Protestors to Show Up at Rose Parade

As many look forward to the colorful floats the Rose Parade is known for, other smaller groups are getting ready to protest alongside. The Washington Post reports that a number of groups large enough to garner media attention are preparing to protest events both related and unrelated to the Rose Parade.

One such group consists of people looking to draw attention to China's human rights abuses. The Post reports that Chinese Americans, who say they have been victims of the Chinese government, are protesting the floats honoring the 2008 Olympics to be held in Beijing. Some are also upset over the $400,000 price tag on the Beijing Olympics float.

Another group getting fired up consists of anti-war protesters and those who seek to have President Bush impeached. This camp's involvement has been highlighted by the appearance and involvement with Cindy Sheehan. Sheehan is known for her anti-war stance and has been an outspoken critic of the war and Bush. The Post reports that Sheehan plans to run against House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in the upcoming elections.
An issue to some involved in the parade now is whether small fringe groups will continue to try to use the New Year's Parade as a soapbox for their grievances. The parade has been a New Years staple for over a century, and many seek to keep the parade as a warm welcome to the new year and less as a political event. According to the Post, a Chinese American group protesting the Beijing Olympics was turned down when it sought approval for a "...demonstration along the parade route involving a large band and several vehicles." Pasadena Mayor Bogaard cited safety concerns as to why the city turned down the protesters request.

This year's Rose Parade theme will be "Passport to the World's Celebrations." In the parade will be a grand total of forty-six floats and over twenty marching bands, among many other eye-pleasers.