When they go from Protesters to Rioters

On January 6, 2021, the world got to witness via the television or internet a fail coup attempt on the United States Capitol. Considering the fact that this building is supposed to be one of the most guarded buildings in D.C., on this day the failure or the collusion of the Capitol Police was also recorded for the world to see. Those who have visited the Capitol know all too well, that the police presence can be felt as soon as you reach the steps. Nevertheless, this extremely large gathering of mostly white people, for whatever reason, does not implement any sense of fear, anxiety or worry.

Prior to the insurrection, the 45th President of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump and his supporters held a rally. During this mass meeting, his two hype men, Donald J. Trump, Jr and his attorney Rudy Giuliani warmed the crowd with statements such as “we are coming for you” and “trial by combat”.

During his speech, President Trump continues to share his dismay of the election results, that he presumes “robbed” him of a second term. He then proceeded to tell his supporters- “And after this we’re going to walk down there, and I’ll be there with you, we’re going to walk down….. to the Capitol and we are going to cheer on our brave senators and congressmen/women.” Trump told the crowd, ” And we’re probably not going to be cheering so much for some of them. Because you’ll never take back our county with weakness. You have to show strength and you have to be strong.” The implications and his rhetoric motivated this crowd to do the unthinkable and disrupt the joint session of Congress to certify President Biden’s win of the 2020 presidential election. And the rest will go into the history books.

Now! With all that being said, if any Black or Brown person in the name of Democracy, BLM (Black Lives Matter) or Allah, would have walked down to the Capitol and tried to take siege of it, things would not have gone over so smoothly. I am willing to bet that the headlines would have read: “Dozens of African American bodies lay dead on the stairs of the Capitol building”. Many have mentioned that black protests have been described as being conducted by “thugs” and “looters”, including President Trump. However, our protests no matter how peaceful are still met with a great police presence coupled with a authoritarian posture and excessive force. Although protesting is supposed to be the American way, even in the year 2021, African Americans are not “American” enough to have the opportunity to be able to partake in this type of assembly.

Yet, the failed coup ended with a loss of life caused by the rioters. As well as, a disrespect of democracy and a shameful look upon the security and lack there of. “Of the the people by the people.” Minimal to no arrests were made that day. Furthermore, it clearly showed the world how the United States of America has to honestly confront and make some serious changes to break down the racial bias and infirmity of white privilege.