At first I laughed when I read about the City of Denver, host of the 2008 DNC, passing a "new law that prohibits people from carrying certain items if they intend to use them for nefarious purposes." These "certain items" are described in the article as "chains, padlocks, carabiners and other locking devices. It also prohibits the possession of noxious substances. Two of the most frequently used examples of a noxious substance are a bucket of urine and a 'feces bomb.'"
Of course, some believe this is silly and a waste of time. But, I think it is important for the city to think through all of the possible situations the police and event organizers might face.
Applying this concept to campuses, I always create a "what if" list for institutions that are making announcements that might be controversial. Think through which audiences will support or oppose you, and brainstorm all of the tools opponents have at their disposal to cause harm or negative press. Is there anything you can do in advance to prevent these outcomes and is there any way you can meet with the opposition in advance to allow for a peaceful event or message release?
When brainstorming with clients, the first "what ifs" often involve blogs, opponent press releases, mass emails, etc. Often I make us return to the obvious, like "certain items intended for nefarious purposes." Remember that you can cause just as much damage (albeit different) and receive more press with a 'feces bomb' than with a blog attack. Be prepared for both.
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