riot2011frontlines:

Photo by Matthew Grapengieser

It is time for the public to speak out, and to stand up. I feel the need to voice my concerns as this begins to play out in the media.

After witnessing the events of Wednesday night, literally on my doorstep, and after hearing some of the things being represented in various media reports by City Officials following the tragic events on Wednesday, I know I have to.

First, to the instigators and to those that stood by or joined in the fray, I say that if you mask your face to attack the citizens and police of a city with weapons and explosives, burn and loot businesses, scare families, and try to justify these acts under the guise of free speech… then we as the people that don’t want any part in a riot (which the vast majority of citizens in this province did not) need to be looking at other options to protect the lawful and the innocent.

I don’t care about protecting your ignorance.

This is Canada, a country that we love. You will get arrested, you will get a lawyer, you have the right to you opinion, and to PEACEFUL protest. Gas and flames and masks are not peaceful. I promise, if you are peaceful and respectful, you need not fear we wont hear you if you speak peacefully. Your face may not end up being on the news, but millions of Canadians who value their rights will listen to you. Actually having a message that causes action takes more than a Facebook page and a crowd wielding gas and hammers.

What about my right to not live in a war zone? I live at Robson and Hamilton. We watched the kids cry terrified while the people drink more and cheer you on. We gave first aid to those who lay in the street defenseless while you attacked and laughed. We listened to the explosions caused by your stupidity well into the night.

How would you like it if we, the thousands that wanted no part in your riot, came to your house and rolled your car because we drank too much all while our friends were cheering us on?

So on to my questions……..

 

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2:20 am  •  21 June 2011  •  9 notes