Occupy San Francisco: Protesters line up, await arrest

About 10 p.m. Wednesday along the western edge of Occupy San Francisco, protesters began lining up on the sidewalk, a seated row in front, a standing row behind. Some wore masks or bandannas to protect against the possibility of tear gas.

An organizer used a bullhorn to shout out a phone number to call for legal assistance if the demonstrators were arrested.

“These are the magic words,” she said. “Everybody repeat after me: I have the right to remain silent.” The group shouted back: “I have the right to remain silent.” She continued: “I want to see a lawyer.” They responded: “I want to see a lawyer.”

Across Stewart Street, diners at an expense-account restaurant called One Market had a perfect view of the festivities over plates of Alaskan halibut “Sous vide” and ahi tuna with lado and beech mushroom escabecha.

Protesters were shouting, “We are the 99%” and marching to the sounds of a small brass band.

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-- Maria LaGanga in San Francisco

Photo: Occupy San Francisco encampment Wednesday afternoon. Credit: Associated Press

Ilustration: Paul Duginski / Los Angeles Times