I live outside of Provo but am close enough that we go there many times each week. It was chilling to see the video of a driver getting shot, especially since it happened at an intersection I pass through frequently.
The mayor was right to condemn the shooting itself, but it’s unclear if she was also condemning the less-violent-but-still-illegal acts that led up to it, including the blocking of traffic and pounding on cars.
In addition to being against outright violence, we need two things. First, a clear statement from the mayor that Provo doesn’t condone or allow less violent lawlessness either — this would be both reassuring to the public, but would also make it clear that the police won’t get thrown under the bus for doing their jobs. And second, we then need the police to enforce the laws when it comes to the protesters. The freedom to protest peacefully is important, but that freedom doesn’t trump others’ right to travel freely or get home safely. If your protest needs to disrupt traffic, get a permit.
To all the businesses in Provo: I’m sorry, but we’re going to think twice about visiting until these two things happen. Maybe it’s an unfair characterization, but right now the message seems to be, “here in Provo, if you’re really upset and as long as you don’t get too violent, we’ll look the other way when you break some laws and trample the rights of more peaceful people,” and that just doesn’t cut it.
Dave Brueck
Springville