Reader: I've Never Seen a Peaceful Protest That Was Really Peaceful

Last week's Denver protests over the no-indictment decision by a Ferguson, Missouri grand jury were intended to be peaceful but ended in four arrests. A subsequent Comment of the Day about whether violence can bring peace inspired even more conversation -- including this provocative take. See also: Reader: I've Never...

By Michael Roberts

December 2, 2014

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Last week's Denver protests over the no-indictment decision by a Ferguson, Missouri grand jury were intended to be peaceful but ended in four arrests. A subsequent Comment of the Day about whether violence can bring peace inspired even more conversation -- including this provocative take.

Dennis McCabe writes:

I've never witnessed "peaceful" protests ever. Protests are always a way for the "fringe" to burst out from the shadows. I agree with most on here -- make a difference by donating time and or money for the homeless.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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