hazards, sexual assault incidents, violent behavior and denial of access of medical aid. >> reporter: but many of the protesters say seeing dozens taken away in shackles only serves to renew their dedication to the movement. >> we're not going to back down. we have no reason to back down. >> the only thing he we have to do is continue to march. that's all we can do to continue to change things because if we keep running away, nothing's going to happen. >> reporter: those on both sides of this emotional debate agree. >> leave now. you are subject to arrest. >> reporter: a lot's been happening. protest sites across the country over the last few days. jay gray, nbc news. well, last night on "the rachel maddow show" she asked frank rich if he thinks it's potentially damaging that so-called occupiers are being derided as anti-american radicals. >> i don't think it is potentially damaging but interestingly it's again what happened with the bonus army