Okay, so it’s clear there are two groups who have splintered off from each other: the activists and the rioters. The activists are up at 14th and Broadway, and are preaching a message of peace, outrage, and ultimately, political action.
Moving south down Broadway are the rioters. They’re throwing bottles and various bits of detritus at the police, who are in cars and riot gear. Outnumbering both the police and the rioters are photographers, tourists, rubberneckers, looking for pictures to post their news organization, blog, facebook page (ahem).
The rioters are performing for the cameras. And I’m holding a camera. There’s a craven aspect to the whole thing. This doesn’t feel like true racial tension. I can’t cynically observe this thing anymore.
I am part of the problem. I have to leave.
You know what, white people? Sometimes it’s not always about you.
Oakland’s residents love their city’s charming neighborhoods, which include a mix of well-known areas like Fruitvale, North Oakland and Downtown. Public transit, however, is problematic.
Oakland’s landscape is a picturesque mix of lovely hillside neighborhoods; exciting and diverse architecture.
Whether you’re coming for business or pleasure, you’ll find Oakland offers something for every interest and age group.
If we jump up and down on this cop’s car, it will usher justice into the system and bring a dead black man back to life.
I swear to god this is a spectator sport.
Look at these fucking hipsters.
These two: adults. The spiritual opposites of the attention whores and demagogues that will make the evening news. “Violence is not justice.” passing out anti-inflammatory literature.
Youth UpRising. Hm.
Be sure to plan your visit to Oakland around our many events and street festivals.
… aaaaaaand we’re off! Whispers and cries of “involuntary manslaughter” ripple through the crowd. And the jackals pounce, shutters-a-clicking.
