The first amendment to our constitution allows people to protest issues they consider offensive to them. That right has been exercised on this soil by ethnic Europeans since before the Revolution. However, that right does not allow the people to infringe upon another person’s ability to enjoy their rights under the same amendment. In recent protests, an extremely small number of people acted illegally by breaking into buildings and vehicles and burning them. Looting usually occurs when some bad actors start criminal activity. All of this activity should be met by the police exercising their oath to protect the lawful rights of the other people.

The reason for the police to get involved is obvious. When the protests start to turn violent, those protesting peacefully need to either move away from the activity or to assist the police by pointing out the criminals. Allowing people to riot destroys not only the reason for the protest but also the businesses in the area. Over and over we have found the vast majority of protesters are peaceful and non-violent, just wanting to express their viewpoint.

The reason for the protests is valid and I think very necessary, but I am afraid any result will be temporary when the riots and looting reduces the value. When the looting becomes the focus of the news, the reason for the protest is lost. When policemen have to react to the violence it immediately changes the scene. The protesters are not at fault, but neither can the protesters help stop the violence or the looting without the police.

The looting and violence only makes it harder to change the perception by both black and white people.