Power for the People

For the last couple of years, the Rocky Flats Nuclear Weapons Plant in central Colorado has been one of the principal targets of the antidefense, anti-technology extremists. But late last month, the other side had its say.

The pro-nuclear rally, sponsored by the Denver-based Citizens for Energy and Freedom, had for its theme “Power for the People”—and the people were there. It was a much wider spectrum of humanity than is generally found at anti-nuke demonstrations. There was not only greater diversity in terms of age and race, but there was a relaxed, non-frenzied, good-time atmosphere, in striking contrast to the tense and rather gloomy affairs put on by the anti’s. A holiday atmosphere prevailed, with people milling around, chatting with friends, setting up folding chairs and spreading out blankets, and enjoying the music of several bands, which ranged from contemporary rock to the easier strains of mariachi. There was even a magician.

JK

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Jack D. Kirwan

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For the last couple of years, the Rocky Flats Nuclear Weapons Plant in central Colorado has been one of the principal targets of the antidefense, anti-technology extremists. But late last month, the other side had its say.

The pro-nuclear rally, sponsored by the Denver-based Citizens for Energy and Freedom, had for its theme “Power for the People”—and the people were there. It was a much wider spectrum of humanity than is generally found at anti-nuke demonstrations. There was not only greater diversity in terms of age and race, but there was a relaxed, non-frenzied, good-time atmosphere, in striking contrast to the tense and rather gloomy affairs put on by the anti’s. A holiday atmosphere prevailed, with people milling around, chatting with friends, setting up folding chairs and spreading out blankets, and enjoying the music of several bands, which ranged from contemporary rock to the easier strains of mariachi. There was even a magician.