Oh, I don't think they were right, or even bright...
...to do what they did.
I do believe they have done what many persecuted people have done: they have become what their enemies are in order to "defend" themselves. Old Testament justice at its finest.
There are two cardinal rules when pursuing a higher goal (e.g., justice, equality, liberty) than personal or group power through democratic political means:
1. If you're comfortable with everyone at the table, then your coalition is too small.
2. Do not, under any circumstances, become the thing you hate, lest you yield the moral high ground to your opponents.
The people at this conference, in their fear and anger, have forgotten both of them.
Regards--
Mary Anne