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Wisconsin Protesters Blocked From Organizing Website

As pro-labor protests continue in Wisconsin, it has become clear that technology is playing a critical role in keeping protesters and volunteers connected, while getting their stories out to the rest of the world.

But according to multiplesources, including CNN.com, the state government in Madison appears to be blocking access to certain organizing websites.

Sites like Defend Wisconsin, created by the Teaching Assistant's Association to provide essential information and updates to those on the ground, were recently unavailable through the Capitol building "guest wi-fi" network, leaving thousands of protesters without access.

As a wireless network publically available to all visitors to the Capitol, singling out Defend Wisconsin was seen as clear top-down blow to protesters' ability to organize.

According to former Wisconsin Assistant Attorney General Chuck Hoonstra, the block could represent a violation of the First Amendment and deep misuse of power:

"If deliberate, it exposes the persons responsible to litigation in either state or federal court. If they have some facts that would suggest our facts are wrong, it's time for them to come forward."

All across the globe today, we are seeing citizen movements use the web is a crucial tool to organize, voice concern, and spread news. And in a time when collective bargaining rights are being challenged across the U.S., pro-labor voices are relying on the Internet more than ever to speak out and organize.

The reality is clear: blocking access to Web sites should never be considered an acceptable tactic in a healthy democracy.

Is Scott Walker Cutting Off Internet Access To Thwart Protesters? (Think Progress)

Wisconsin Dems say protest website blocked in Capitol (The Daily Page)

Pro-union website blocked in Wisconsin Capitol (CNN)

Defend Wisconsin