Target loses case trying to stop Canvass For A Cause from petitioning

[Newsjock]

Source: San Diego Gay and Lesbian News

The giant Target Corp. has lost its effort to stop local grass-roots activist group Canvass For A Cause (CFAC) from talking to customers outside their stores in California.

Superior Court Judge Jeffrey B. Barton released his ruling this afternoon, denying Target’s motion for an injunction to stop CFAC from petitioning customers.

During the hearing on March 25, CFAC contended that its right to free speech was being challenged by the lawsuit, while Target claimed the grass-roots group’s tactics were harming its business.

... Judge Barton said Target and its powerful law firm of Morrison & Foerster, which has offices globally, failed to show sufficient evidence that the big-box retailer’s business was suffering as a result of the petitioners.

Read more: http://sdgln.com/news/2011/04/07/breaking-news-target-loses-case-trying-stop-canvass-cause-petitioning

[saorsa]

1. Wow, could this be a crack in the Wall?

I would like to hear more about this. Did the activist group have to stand in a designated 'zone' in front of the store? Did they have to submit paperwork before doing the outreach work? It always amazes me that Californian's would be so blase about the way big retailers limit free speech for the little guys outside their stores, while big money has an easy greasy slide right into lawmakers and regulators offices.

[Omaha Steve]

2. Judge: Gay rights group can canvass outside Target (free speech)

Source: AP

By JULIE WATSON

SAN DIEGO (AP) - A judge ruled Thursday that a San Diego pro-gay marriage group can continue canvassing outside of Target stores in California, but the group's volunteers must stay 30 feet away from store entrances and canvass at just one entrance at a time.

The Minnesota-based retail giant had sought an injunction barring the activists from every outlet in the state, alleging they harass customers by cornering them near store entrances to discuss gay marriage, solicit donations and collect signatures on petitions.

Rights advocates have warned that the legal battle between Target and Canvass For A Cause could further damage the retailer's already strained relations with the gay and lesbian community.

Canvass For A Cause director Tres Watson called Thursday's ruling a win for not only his organization, but also for free speech.

Read more: http://apnews.excite.com/article/20110408/D9MF8UI80.html