BLM came to our little town of less than 3000 people back in July. The news article was short on details, but I gather that counter protestors were there and it was noisy, but no burning, looting etc.
The police told BLM that the event was advertised to end at a certain time, and that the police intended to leave on time. BLM then asked for an escort to their vehicles and left.
They also visited several other towns within an hours drive from us during July. In Fredricktown, I was able to find face book posts, and according to the person posting, none of them were Black. Shouts of “you ain’t black-go home” were heard, and lots of yellow don’t tread on me flags.
I suspect it was a scouting trip to look the area over and make plans for future events. We are 75 miles from St. Louis and 99.6% white community. Hunting is a big thing here-kids skip school and claim they are sick—the Admin winks and says ok. Apparently that 75 miles is not far enough.
It’s a designated poverty area, and the downtown stores are mostly flea market type stuff. We have a Walmart, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Save and Lot and Harps. A few fast food places. Not much for aspiring looters.
Yes, it seems to have been a scouting expedition to see what kind of support they can expect from the area, as well as to evaluate the commercial district.
The mere fact that there were many vocal counter-protesters, yellow flags, and as well as they (a bully organization) requested police escort is significant.
Interesting that most of the protesters weren't black, with alleged grievance issues means that they are relying on "white guilt",
and so I would suggest that most were liberal college aged students intermixed with a few paid agitators.
Interesting ... It would seem that the local community won't offer much support, and are more independently minded, and won't be bullied.