By Adam Leon Guerrero for Just Thinking Aloud, Kandit News & Views
The right to protest is sacred in America. It’s in our DNA, protected by the First Amendment and defended by generations who believed in the power of free speech and peaceful assembly.
That’s why, whatever side of the debate you’re on, we should all respect the thousands [who marched] peacefully in Los Angeles and across the country. They raised their voices for causes that matter to them.
But here’s what can’t be ignored: the broken windows, fires, assaults on officers, and chaos in the streets—that’s not protest. That’s violence. And it’s drowning out their message.
We saw similar scenes in the summer of 2020 during the George Floyd protests. While many peacefully sought justice and reform, the destructive acts—estimated to have caused billions in property damage nationwide—left a lasting stain. What was meant to be a “summer of love” became a summer many now remember for violence and division.
What’s more troubling is how quietly some protest leaders and politicians respond today. We keep hearing, “We don’t support the violence, but…” Then they pivot to blaming the other side or talking up their cause, as if the violence were just a footnote.
But it’s not a footnote. It’s the headline. It’s what families and business owners see outside their doors. When organizers stay silent or gloss over it, they risk looking like they approve—or at least don’t mind.
If your movement is built on justice, then say so—loudly and without hesitation. Say: “To those throwing bricks and lighting fires—go home. You’re not helping us.”
Calling out the violence isn’t weakness. It’s leadership. And it could win support from people who want to listen but are turned off by the destruction.
Whatever your politics, this moment matters. It deserves thoughtful voices and a clear call for peaceful and lawful actions from all sides.
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Adam Leon Guerrero is a resident of Barrigada
