Once again, Race is in the news. Groups of racists were allowed to march for their rights. It seemed at first that they wanted a peaceful protest. Counter protestors marched against them. Both groups had peaceful individuals in them. As with any organization, there were those on both sides that wanted a violent confrontation.

Those nonviolent people were overshadowed by the ones that wanted to kill the other side. Whose fault was this outbreak of tragedy? It could be the authorities which authorized this march. Those who organized the meeting can be accused of knowing that counter protestors would be there. It happens with almost every gathering of any kind. Someone comes that opposes their views.

The groups that marched in opposition knew they were confronting some violent antagonists. The authorities had a police presence available to keep the peace. What went wrong?

Our Constitution guarantees a right to peaceful assembly. Has this type of violence been present at other rallies by these groups? If so, the event should not have been authorized. If opposition groups had been known to start fights, that should have been defused before the two groups met.

In hindsight, we know that the National Guard and a stronger police presence were needed. Someone misjudged the danger that was forming. The blame, however, is justly placed on those individuals who started the fights. The man who drove into the crowd is responsible for his actions as well.

The problem is that no one wants to admit that they were partially at fault. This is a growing problem in this country. More of us refuse to accept responsibility for our actions. We also deny guilt for those who agree with us.

We need to remember that just because you disagree with me does not mean you are wrong. There is almost always more than one side to every disagreement. Violence is never the answer. Just as we have seen in other demonstrations in the last few years, the violent minority can cause problems for the peaceful majority.

I’ve seen a suggestion on Facebook that if you are part of a protest and violence breaks out, sit down, raise your hands and let those assigned to protect lives and property know that you are peaceful. Be sure you obey the instructions of the police and National Guard. If they tell you to disperse, walk away to protest another day.

Choose the side of truth. Not truth as you see it. Truth as it really exists. Each of these opposing groups believe they are correct. Neither is completely on track. Who is the most important person in your life? It should not be you. You must choose someone else as most important.

Always put others first. The philosophy that you are number one will put you on a downward spiral. I’ve seen books that encourage you to make yourself most important. I hope you eventually learn, as I have, that these writers are incorrect. Jesus said we should treat others as we want to be treated.

©Copyright 2025 by Charles Kensinger