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police command may appear to side with the demonstra- tors, asking them to sing a few songs or lead the group in prayer (this happened on the part of the Maryland State Guard in Cambridge in May, 1964), before asking them politely to disperse. This can be coupled with veiled threats to have leading demonstrators com- mitted for observation to mental institutions, which also happened in Cambridge -- this threat seems to be more severe than simple prison. But the objective is ~ the same: to disperse demonstrators at all costs. Given the basic objective of the civil rights move- ment ina demonstration, namely to publicize a wrong, confront the community with the facts, and sometimes create dislocation in order to secure action, police tactics are only half of the picture. The leadership abil- ity, perspectives, and organization of the civil rights demonstrators are also important. The best possible combination is to have a well-organized, well-educated movement, combined with generally accepted and legal police tactics, The worst is to have neither. Most dem~ onstrations fall somewhere in between. But even under the worst kind of police repression, if the movement is well-disciplined the basic objective need not be lost. Basic objectives can be lost in a host of charges and counter-charges if the movement is disorganized, no matter how enlightened the police may be. 82 Discipline which maximizes the basic objectives of a demonstration involves a well-organized demonstration with clear lines of command and communication, and with a clear understanding by the participants of what they are to do ina variety of circumstances. Communicating, or at least try- ing to communicate, the objectives of the demonstration not only to the general public but also to the police command in advance is considered an important part of organization. A dignified bearing at all times is also important, pur~ ticularly when making physical contact with police units. Calling a demonstration off at a particular point, or re- treating in the face of police or mob violence is perfectly okay; but it should be done by pre-arranged plan, and in as orderly a manner as is possible under the circum- stances. This points up the "image" of the movement, and makes it more difficult to charge the civil rights group with being nothing but a "rabble" commanded by “irresponsible agitators." Dignity also has a very defi- nite effect upon police and onlookers, and tends to break down their prejudiced notions about the movement. Non- violent tactics are an essential part of a dignified demon- stration, and even of an orderly retreat. Police Tactics Here are some comments on "Counter-Demonstra- tion Operations" in terms of specific tactics used by police, go that you will have some idea of the kinds of things you may expect. 83