Free Republic

Devonte Hart is touching the hearts of hundreds of thousands across the country. An image taken at a Ferguson Rally shows Devonte hugging a police officer with tears streaming down his face. As soon as the picture was posted this 12 year old boy from Portland, Oregon became a symbol of hope in the midst of a nation divided by racial tensions. Devonte was at the rally with his mother, Jen Hart. As Devonte held a sign that said ‘Free Hugs’ a police officer came over to talk with him. After making general conversation Sgt. Bret Barnum asked Devonte why...

Full title: Kid Holding ‘Free Hugs’ Sign at Protest Attracts Cop’s Attention. What Happens at the End of Their Encounter Goes Viral. Police Sergeant Bret Barnum was wearing protective head gear and patrolling a protest earlier this week in Portland, Oregon — one of several flashpoint U.S. cities that have seen demonstrations after a grand jury decided not to indict a white police officer who fatally shot a 18-year-old black man in Ferguson, Missouri, in August. But amid the and anger and loud voices on Nov. 25, something altogether different got Barnum’s attention: A kid with tears in his eyes...