PITTSFIELD, Mass. — On the third anniversary of the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, more than 60 people gathered in Pittsfield’s Park Square. The event was organized to oppose and remember the events of Jan. 6. Michael Wise, chairman of Berkshire Democratic Brigades, read a speech delivered by President Joe Biden on the previous day, addressing the crowd with powerful words about the importance of democracy in America.
The attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2022, continues to be felt locally in Berkshire County. Right-wing conservatives, supported by some Republican politicians, led the violent attack in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 general election. The riot resulted in the deaths of seven people, including a Capitol police officer, and the invasion of the Capitol building by approximately 2,000 individuals.
In response to the unfounded conspiracy theory that the election was stolen from former President Donald Trump, demonstrators expressed deep concern about the state of democracy and the need to defend it. As one attendee put it, “It feels as if we have not done enough to understand how important our democracy is, and how necessary it is to defend it. We can’t take it for granted.”
Local politicians, including State Sen. Paul Mark, D-Becket, and state Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, D-Pittsfield, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of upholding democracy and the peaceful transfer of power. They highlighted the need to work together to prevent any future events similar to the Jan. 6 insurrection.
The demonstration sought to celebrate American democracy, express gratitude to the Congressional Jan. 6 Committee, and support the ongoing criminal investigation into the individuals responsible for planning and executing the insurrection. They also emphasized the need to say “Never Again” to the use of violence to overthrow the country’s oldest Constitutional democracy.
The impact of the Jan. 6 riots is also felt locally, as at least a few individuals from Berkshire County were involved in the events. Some have already faced legal consequences for their participation, while others are still being prosecuted. The local community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this historical event and its implications for the future of American democracy.
The demonstration in Pittsfield sheds light on the deep concerns and ongoing efforts to safeguard democracy and uphold the principles of the American political system. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of Jan. 6 and the continued national dialogue on the state of democracy in the United States.