Let us be clear: Saturday night’s violence was a planned riot. Before the July 25 event, flyers promoting mayhem under the guise of “Richmond Stands with Portland” circulated around the internet. Concerned citizens forwarded to friends, family and news media the angry, expletive-loaded circular urging people to meet at Monroe Park at 9:30 p.m.
The disarray in downtown Richmond Saturday night should come as no surprise to anyone who has watched this city — and others across the country — overcome by waves of violent unrest over the past two months. The real questions continue to be: Who is behind it — and who will step up to stop it?
And when a flyer advertising a violent event spreads faster than the fires that burned near the Richmond Police Department headquarters, you really have to wonder: Who were the “people” in the first place?
And where is the leadership?
Over the weekend in Portland, Ore., and other cities, gunfire was heard and there were reports of vehicles striking protesters. Demonstrators often are showing up heavily armed, and throwing bricks and mortars at police. There already have been deaths nationally; we fear there could be more. Black Lives Matter officials say they are concerned that militants are harming their cause.
When will our elected leaders say “enough”? Where are business, education and other community leaders in publicly condemning the violence?
When will Stoney and City Council members acknowledge that putting down riots to protect lives and property is a very real function of their elected positions? Keeping mum and refusing to take action in fear of making tough decisions is not governing. It is cowardice. Enough is enough. Show some leadership.