General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Eff you Joe Scum [View all]JohnSJ
(92,740 posts)made it clear this is beyond free speech and has become an illegal assembly.
Once violence has started between various groups involved, the line has been crossed.
The police and protesters are being very reserved in their use of force so far, and for those thinking this is helping the cause that is being protested,
At least three-quarters of Americans consider it to be always or usually acceptable to protest by create a petition (87%), call your representative (85%), hand out flyers (85%), chant or sing (82%), boycott products (80%), march for long distances (79%), or wear symbolic clothing or accessories (78%).
However,
Tactics that involve more direct or invasive action including blocking traffic (12%), disrupting public events (21%), and occupying spaces or buildings (36%) are less likely to be considered acceptable. Intentionally destructive actions rioting (9%), defacing property (9%), and burning the American flag (17%) are among the least accepted protest actions.
https://today.yougov.com/politics/articles/47565-american-opinion-portest-tactics-acceptability