Savannah Mayor Van Johnson is drawing a clear line between peaceful demonstrations and criminal behavior, promising to uphold constitutional rights while maintaining public safety.
🛡️ Why It Matters: Residents need to know their right to protest is protected, but also that city officials are prepared to prevent any potential unrest that could threaten the community.
🔊 The Mayor’s Message: Johnson emphasized the city’s commitment to constitutional freedoms while issuing a stern warning about potential violence.
“While peaceful protest is protected, criminality is not,” Johnson said. “We will not tolerate violence, destruction, or any acts that seek harm to people, property, or our community.”
🚨 Safety Preparations: City officials aren’t taking chances with public safety, according to the mayor’s statement.
“We are actively monitoring all developments and are fully prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any emergency situation,” Johnson said, noting that law enforcement teams are on alert.
How to Read and Understand The News
When reading news, remember:
- Truth doesn’t change because we dislike it
- Facts remain facts even when they make us uncomfortable
- Events happen whether we accept them or not
- Good reporting often challenges us
- The news isn’t choosing a position — it is relaying what official, verified sources have said.
- Blaming the press for bad news is like blaming a thermometer for a fever.
Before dismissing news that bothers you, ask:
- What evidence supports this story?
- Am I reacting to facts or feelings?
- What would change my mind?
- Am I “shooting the messenger” because I don’t like what is happening?
Smart news consumers seek truth, not just comfort.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
