The Raw Truth that Riots Exploit

What is the first word to come to mind when you hear the word “riot”? The first word I associate with the word is violence. One may think of the recent events that have happened all across America. Riots are real events, real people, real consequences, real moments that have and will continue to shape our country’s history. On Google, the definition of a riot is a “violent disturbance of the peace.” However, I enjoyed Sarah MacDonald and Nicole Symmond's interpretation, “The riot becomes a tactic of the oppressed crying to be heard(33).” Sometimes I believe we get so comfortable running in our hamster wheel that we forget the reality of others around us. Racism, gender discrimination, and economic exploitation have become second nature to not only those abusing these concepts but also the bystanders. Thus, riots do not get a good reputation, but they can force us to see the truth and rawness of the situation. Not everything needs to be sunshine and rainbows twenty-four-seven, If riots will allow us to finally address the deep-rooted problems within our society then I see nothing wrong with them. However, I do not believe innocent children and families lives should be put at risk for the demonstration of the unfair treatment of other people who are suffering. We should work to build each other up and not tear each other down or bring them down to their level. Riots can help to build a flourishing community, but one must be open to change for a riot’s agenda to be accomplished.