The right to protest in enshrined in our constitution. It confirms the right of all citizens to express their views, their frustrations and their demands for change. But as with every right we enjoy as Americans, it must be exercised in a responsible manner. The first amendment of the constitution says:
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. “
The word “peaceably” is important. To me “unpeaceable” gatherings are a violation of the constitution.
Protests must be more than raging. Violence, arson, destruction, looting, threats to life and property are illegal acts, are counterproductive to the cause it purports to advocate and diminish support for the protest’s objective. However legitimate the aim, there is never justification for any form of violence in pursuit of that aim. Protest movements must be peaceful and orderly, must have a clear objective and must have responsible leadership who are able and prepared to have constructive dialogue with the authorities (to petition). At the same time the authorities must protect the demonstrators, have a measured response that will protect the innocent and also be prepared to thoughtfully consider the demands being made. The chaos we have seen in the streets of America is an abomination, an outrage to every decent American and instigators must be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
“Black Lives Matter” is a wakeup call for America but not a call for chaos. All lives matter; all property matters.
Views of a Common Man 