Hamilton anarchists say they're under surveillance

Inside the Sky Dragon Centre, the anarchists believe they are being watched by police.

But they don't care. They say they have nothing to be ashamed of.

It's a bold position to take given one of the best known anarchists to hang out there is facing criminal conspiracy charges related to last month's G20 summit and is accused by police of masterminding plans for violence and destruction.

And in light of a Hamilton police hate crimes report that lists the local anarchist movement -- including its annual book fair -- as something for investigators to watch.

"I've been told by a police officer that they've had Sky Dragon under surveillance for two years," says executive director Kevin MacKay. "Our perspective is -- whatever. We have nothing to hide."

"We've had undercover cops at our book fair," says anarchist Meaghan Ross. "People recognized them. It's just a book fair."

At Sky Dragon, a sunny space on King William Street, a block from police headquarters, discussions range from Gaza to Haiti, community gardens to vegan recipes, peace and anti-poverty to First Nations' and women's issues.

And anarchy.