PITTSFIELD, Mass. – On the third anniversary of the U.S. Capitol insurrection, Berkshire County demonstrators gathered in Pittsfield’s Park Square to oppose the attack and remember the events of Jan. 6. The attack, spearheaded by right-wing conservatives, aimed to overturn the results of the 2020 general election following President Joe Biden’s victory over former President Donald Trump. At least seven people died during the riot, including a Capitol police officer, as rioters forced their way into the Capitol building, sending elected officials running for cover.
The unfounded conspiracy theory, known as “The Big Lie,” alleged that Biden stole the election from Trump, resulting in thousands of people gathering in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6. Today, about 25 percent of Americans believe in various conspiracy theories regarding the attack. The Berkshire Democratic Brigades, along with other organizations, organized a demonstration to celebrate American democracy, thank the Congressional Jan. 6 Committee, and voice support for the ongoing criminal investigation into the insurrection.
State Sen. Paul Mark and state Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier delivered remarks at the event, emphasizing the importance of defending democracy and taking action to ensure that such events are not repeated. Additionally, Berkshire NAACP President Dennis Powell stressed the importance of voting as a means to fight evils within the country and government.
Furthermore, several Berkshire County residents were involved in the Jan. 6 riots, and some have been prosecuted for their roles in the insurrection. The ongoing criminal investigations continue to hold those responsible for the attack accountable, as the community gathers to remember the impact of the events that unfolded on that day.
This demonstration serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding and defending democratic principles, emphasizing the need for accountability and a continued commitment to preserving the foundations of American democracy.