The Impact of Riots on Local Communities: Insights from the Appalachian Highlands

There have been ongoing discussions and debates surrounding the spread and impact of riots in the United States. In my current location, an area within the Appalachian Highlands, the direct effects have been limited. However, the distant occurrences have caused significant emotional and personal discomfort, especially among my family and friends. This article aims to explore the impact of these events, both personal and societal.

Personal Impact and Emotional Stresses

Although the riots have not yet spread to my immediate area, the news of the devastation and loss of life has taken a toll on me. The destruction of property, particularly when caused by groups who should be held accountable, has added another layer of tension to my personal life. This has motivated me to maintain my concealed carry permit and stockpile ammunition as a precautionary measure.

I anticipate that if the situation were to worsen and these riots became a direct threat to myself, my property, or those I care about, I would be ready to take drastic action. With just one word - Kalashnikov - I am prepared to defend myself and those around me.

Community Peace and Stability

In my county, which has a predominantly white population of 94%, the community has remained largely peaceful. The local authorities, including the Sheriff and Police Chief, are known for their firm stance on issues of racial and gender tensions. Any officer or deputy found to have perpetrated racial or gender assaults or abuse is immediately dismissed.

The nearest town has a population of only 35,000 and the entire county has 65,000 residents. These small and tight-knit communities have not experienced significant racial discord. Recent events, such as the 12 protesters arrested for not following repeated requests to stay out of the street, and the cancellation of evening marches due to threats, further emphasize the calmness of the area.

Family and Daily Life Impact

My personal life, including my family and friends, has been influenced by the events occurring across the country. The tension and misinformation surrounding the riots have led to emotional turmoil. A conversation with my mother and sister highlighted the extent of the misinformation and the fear it instills.

Yesterday, my little sister expressed her concern about what the police were doing, believing they were killing everyone. Her perception was fueled by friends and social media. I kept my thoughts to myself, recognizing the difficulty in changing such deeply ingrained beliefs. This incident upset me and highlighted the importance of educating people about the complexities of these events.

Furthermore, the negative online sentiments towards police, including calls for death, have become far beyond peaceful protests. Just last night, four officers in our area were shot, though fortunately, the incidents were non-life-threatening. This situation has also affected my daily life and professional duties, as maintaining public safety is a significant concern.