On November 25th riots continued across the country over the Ferguson grand jury decision, but in Portland, Oregon something happened that put a smile on people's faces. As Devonte Hart held a sign offering "Free Hugs" tears were streaming down his face due to his concerns about how brutal police officers were to young black kids like himself.
Sgt. Bret Barnum, a police officer at the site, noticed the tears and asked the boy for a hug; along with a hug he gave the boy was seemed to be a heartfelt response to his concern:
'Yes. *sigh* I know. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.' The photograph taken of this moment has impacted so many people, including myself.
I have watched many interviews of the police officer talking about what happened that day and his response was heart warming. Barnum talked about how this moment was something that cops do all the time but it just happened to be captured at this moment. When he saw Devonte crying he approached him as human wanting to make someone else feel better; he didn't just give him a hug he became his friend and asked him about his life. Devonte's mom was also touched by what happened; she posted a picture to Facebook that was shared throughout the web.
This moment happening right after the Ferguson grand jury decision is a sign that change might be on the horizon. That people like Devonte will get to see the change they want to see in the world. It's a sign of peace an it is something that I believe many needed to see. The message relayed through this photograph is so powerful, so inspirational.
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