The violent protesters are wrong. Breaking windows at the federal building will do great damage to the movement for immigrant justice. The fact is that nonviolent movements attract people. Violent movements drive people away. At this historic moment, it makes no sense to allow violent protesters to drive potential supporters away. In fact, it’s crazy. 

Yes, many of us are angry about what is happening to our neighbors. But by letting their personal anger overtake them, the violent protesters are not considering whether they are actually harming their immigrant neighbors and strengthening federal authoritarianism. 

In response, we must summon up the ethical courage to tell them: “Stop hijacking this social justice movement!”

So, sadly, here we are once again. A few dozen violent protesters distort the movement’s moral narrative, which is grounded in compassion, justice and community. Their violent actions confuse the public about who holds the moral high ground.

The sound of breaking glass leads the press to diminish coverage of the quieter actions by the many: Driving immigrant neighbors to doctor appointments and food shopping, supporting immigrant-owned businesses, advocating for just laws, documenting ICE actions, financially supporting families and legal assistance, guarding immigrant children at schools and, yes, regularly showing up at nonviolent protests.

The violent protesters are wrong. We must have the courage to tell them in no uncertain terms.

Roscoe Caron
Eugene