It was a great, beautiful day. My wife and I met with friends in Beverly, Illinois. My buddy Dan that I sometimes play music with at a local coffee shop was in tow. When we got to the rally point, 103rd and Western, I was met with a diverse group of people. Senior hippies who were well seasoned with peaceful protest and young children in strollers pushed by loving civic minded parents. City buses went by blaring their horns in solidarity. Trucks and cars regularly circled the intersection also hitting their horns announcing their support.
My wife held a sign that was wrapped in flowers that said “Kindness”. Mine said “NO” with a picture of a crown. People of all nationalities were coming and going, elated with the message we were proclaiming. It felt like a love in. I felt like John Lennon.
I said to myself next time my sign will say “Hair peace, bed peace”. A very attractive girl with a sign walked by that said “Donald is a little bitch”. That was probably the most aggressive statement I saw, otherwise it was peaceful. At one point I was saying out loud “kisses and flowers” while I was standing next to a group of Chicago policemen and women. There were people chanting “No Kings” in between catching their breath and letting their vocal chords recover.
We were out there in support of each other and for the long term direction of our country. Those of us who were gathered know very well that if you treat immigrants badly, the rest of us are in danger. These were people whom I would call the salt of the earth: the coaches, the teachers and the nurses. The everyday people who love our country and want to make it better.
C Jones says
Excellent article..I enjoyed the pictures &
the heart of this article which is we are a democracy & need to support each other.
We are a free nation. Let freedom ring..
Jack Jones says
That is exactly the point we are a democratic nation, and a free nation. Thank you again for your support, Jack
Denis Cleary says
Hi Jack. We’ve been protesting the regime weekly for about three months and the support and enthusiasm has been overwhelming. People from all walks of life who are tired of the lies, corruption, and the disregard for the law and the Constitution. The crowds have been growing in size in addition to the music, flags, cowbells, buble machines,… My favorite part is reading all the signs. So many topics and artistic talent. Like one sign said, “So much outrage, so little cardboard”. Next big protest is July 17th.
Democracy dies in silence.
Jack Jones says
Love it, Great to hear from you Denis. I never went to a demonstration before last week. I had a ball of a time. The camaraderie that I felt was amazing definitely a religious experience and the people felt empowered and happy that there were like minded fellow citizens out there supporting hope and positivity. Truly a blessing to hear and be involved in something positive. I’m glad you’re experiencing the same things as well. Hope to talk soon, Jack
Phil L says
A picture tells a thousand words, thanks for sharing your experience. Look forward to seeing results of seeds sown.
Jack Jones says
I truly miss you Phil. You’re a great guy with extraordinary sensibilities, with common sense. I hope to see you soon so we can talk some more. You’re one of my great teachers that pushed me to think, Jack
Adrian Tawfik says
Great work Jack!! I hope you take more pictures at the next protest. You did great work here.
Jack Jones says
I appreciate that, the great thing is many of my friends caught the protest bug, and are enjoying going to them. Music, dancing a couple cocktails. It seems they are enjoyable on several levels.I say we usher in the 60’s one more time!