This was so people could tell government-sanctioned protectors from unauthorized militias that have been posing as law-and-order squads at right-wing rallies. In brandishing weapons in Charlottesville, the militiamen added an edge of intimidation to a protest that was ostensibly called as an exercise in free speech. These strutting vigilantes have become such a threatening presence that government should rein them in to allow for a truly free exchange of ideas. Advertisement Continue reading the main storyNo shots were fired in the Charlottesville violence, but with more alt-right rallies planned the danger that these militia members’ loaded weapons might be used increases. The American Civil Liberties Union defended the protesters’ free speech rights, though lawyers concede that the issue is becoming more complex as the potential for violence grows.

Source: New York Times August 19, 2017 02:26 UTC