We Must Not be Enemies

Why non-violent protests matters

The phone rings:

Ma: Ju, are you ok?! I just saw what happened at Grant park last night on the news — were you there?

Me: Yes, I was there — I’m fine. One of the first cars on scene. It wasn’t good, Ma. We’ve got a lot of work to do. Let me ring you later. I was at work until 3 am again. I’m going back to sleep.

Ma: Love you, call me later.

Me: Love you, too.

My intent to publish this piece didn’t exist until Saturday morning, when I woke up and saw on social media, non-violent “freedom fighters” ambushed by the police at the Columbus Statue. As I scrolled down, the next title I saw was, “John Lewis Civil Rights Icon” the life and legacy — a reflection of the Congressman who had just passed away after a lifetime of service to our country.

The juxtaposition of the two: “freedom fighters” vs. the legacy of a non-violent leader in the fight for freedom compelled me to reflect and write on the Civil Rights movement in light of current events.

Unknown unit: Call more units, call more units to the Columbus statue!

Unknown unit: 10–1!!

Dispatch: 10–1!! 10–1!! Any units not on something, GO!!

As I arrived on scene I immediately took cover as projectiles were flying in the air at arriving officers. Some officers, having already been on scene, were falling back as they were…