Protests: Rights — and responsibilities

Just one.

Hundreds of upstanding Americans can exercise their First Amendment rights in a public protest, yet if just one has ulterior motives, chaos and tragic consequences can ensue.

This newspaper is published under the broad shield of the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment, which also protects the right of the people to peaceably assemble.

The “assemble” part of that amendment is far easier than the “peaceably” part.

When an individual or group decides a protest is warranted, there are legal steps to follow depending upon the jurisdiction. Just as free-speech rights have certain limits, so too does the right to assemble, which even the horrific Aryan Nations adhered to some two decades ago.

But even once those steps are followed, the real work begins: To demonstrate as loudly and ardently as wanted but without causing harm to other people or property.

And that’s where the specter of “just one” looms.

One person with poison in his or her heart can generate catastrophic consequences for those who would otherwise follow the law. As we’ve seen across the nation, many thousands of Americans are assembling to raise awareness and change society at its core, but there also are the few who want to reap destruction, win political points or take advantage of what they view as an opportunity for personal gain through looting.

It doesn’t take extraordinary observational powers to see that our country is reeling from a pandemic, its devastating economic impact and now, racial tension. But for our community, here is the hope: That those who choose to peaceably assemble, do so not just with that goal foremost in your minds, but do your utmost to ensure that nobody hijacks your cause.

Please, let’s keep everyone’s safety and security — police, protesters, business owners and employees, watchers — above every other consideration.

Protests are part of what makes America great. Violence never is.