Protests are a fundamental aspect of democracy, serving as a means to advocate for rights and uphold democratic institutions. They should not be avenues for chaos but rather a reflection of society's need to protect its values. Research by political scientist Omar Wasow highlights this point by showing how nonviolent protests by the Black community in the 1960s strengthened the civil rights movement and garnered broader public support.

Conversely, the study found that violent protests had detrimental effects, leading to decreased support among white voters and potentially influencing the 1968 presidential election results. This evidence underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of dissent through peaceful means, emphasizing that the manner of protest can significantly shape public perception and political outcomes.