There is a long history of interactions between protesters and law enforcement in the United States. Because demonstrations are often large and highly visible, authorities tend to use these events as examples of what should not be done. However, during the No Kings protest in San Diego, California, yesterday, the San Diego Police Department issued a statement thanking the demonstrators for their peaceful behavior. I hope to see more police departments follow this positive example.
The No Kings protest was an organized, nationwide event that involved a demonstration against the idea of the United States of America becoming a monarchy. Every single city involved in the protest did so with the same intention, although the organization and behavior of participants varied from city to city.
Fortunately, the San Diego, California, protest was incredibly peaceful, with absolutely no arrests or incidents having occurred. The police department wanted to commend its citizens, and so it released an official post thanking them, adding that it helps keep and maintain a healthy and safe environment. Attendees who found the above post were quick to comment about their experience at the event, with one saying, “I was at the front of one of the marches— SDPD was smiling and nodding at everyone, even some thumbs up/fists. They seemed very proud. They directed traffic efficiently, allowing the march to blend into one, and then headed back to the waterfront. As a 6th-gen native, this was very beautiful to experience.“
Given the turbulent political climate in the United States, it is refreshing to see a police department willing to go out of its way to engage with the community. For decades, a long-standing feud has existed between civilians and officers in California, making it historically enjoyable to witness the beginnings of what could be a healing of that relationship.
