Hug-In Action Plan

The hug-in will be a peaceful demonstration of love, not a chanting riotous protest. We should be quiet and/or silent and respectful. There will be some press there and a few photographers.

I have received an email from one of the original huggers who has pledged his support for the event. He and his partner both have to work tonight, so they cannot attend. They will be with us in spirit.

MOST IMPORTANT: Don't hug until you see someone else hugging. One couple will start off the hugging at the appointed time. If you don't see them, you'll see someone else who has seen them, or some who saw someone who saw them. You get the idea...

Full action plan below the fold...


Step 1: Right now. Relax and take a deep breath. This isn't a big deal!

Step 2: Huggers will meet at the upstairs bar at Nellie's Sports Bar, 9th and U Sts NW between 6:00 and 6:30 PM. Purchasing liquid courage is encouraged for those who may consider backing out. The downstairs bar will be open. Don't keep an open tab! We won't be there too long.

** Solo huggers should find me (brown sweater, brown cords, black glasses) and let me know you are looking for a partner. I'll take down your name and match you up. If you're coming solo, please arrive by 6:30 PM!!! **

Step 3: Between 6:35 and 6:50, huggers will trickle out of Nellie's and walk to the Rite Aid. Huggers on the early side should walk around a bit, look at items, look like shoppers. Don't get lost in the back, and don't lose track of time. Stay in visual contact of other people.

Step 4: A catalyst couple will begin the hugging. There will be no bell or announcement. Just one couple in the middle of the store's front area that will start hugging. When you see a couple hugging, you hug your partner. Hug for as long as you want, but we're shooting for about a minute. YOU ARE NOT the catalyst couple. Please don't be the first couple to hug. We want to make sure everyone is there before the hugging starts. The catalyst couple will be the last group to leave Nellie's and will ensure that everyone is at the store before the hugging starts.

Step 5: When you finish your embrace, just turn and walk out of the store. (Please don't buy anything.) Go out and enjoy your freedoms.

Thank you!