Poor People's Campaign's "Bushville" in St. Paul Raided by Riot Police

TC-IMC UPDATE 11:45 PM: Several activists leaving Harriet Island were detained by police. One was arrested and the others were allowed to go.

At approximately 11:30 a caravan of about 10 squad cars and a paddywagon entered the park. Likely close to at least 100 cops surrounding the encampment. Situation developing. We will continue reports as we receive them by phone.

TC-IMC UPDATE 11:16 PM: 15-20 riot cops in full gear have entered park 'getting ready to go'.

TC-IMC UPDATE 11:14 PM: Police on bikes have surrounded area around encampment. About 50 cops. Other people in the park are not being hassled by police. There is a large van which appears to have plastic handcuffs - mass arrests possible. Situation developing.

TC-IMC UPDATE 10:59 PM: Police massing on bridge and from west end of Harriet Island park. Appear to be getting into formation & in a 'decision taking' type of mode. Police on bikes & receiving orders. Park legally closes @ 11 PM. [And so it begins...]

TC-IMC UPDATE: SUPPORT NEEDED AT 11PM TONIGHT - HARRIET ISLAND PARK

MPR is reporting the following:
Police say the protesters need to leave by 11 tonight, when the park closes. Camping isn't allowed in any of the city parks. Officers say they hope to avoid using force when removing the activists tonight. One police cruiser is on the scene, but so far no arrests have been made.

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Poor People's Campaign Sets Up "Bushville" on Harriet Island

At 2pm Thursday afternoon, the Poor People's Campaign set up a tent city - "Bushville" - on Harriet Island, on the south side of the Mississippi River from downtown St. Paul.

The tent city is in need of support - tarps, water, food, amenities, and people to camp (provided they are sober, respectful, and willing to respect the leadership of the camp) and provide a supportive presence of this space. Come to Harriet Island!

The camp is at the same site as an SEIU rally planned for September 1.

More info to follow at TC-IMC