An Interview For Protesters & Rioters

GOOD LUCK TO YOU; WE’LL BE IN TOUCH

How would today’s protesters and rioters do in a job interview?

Considering the conduct of some of those who have marched in the streets in recent weeks, it might be fair if—when any one of them applied for a job—the interviewer asked some direct questions, such as:

Your record indicates that when you disagreed with others you called them names such as racists, bigots, homophobes, xenophobes, etc. Did you investigate the background of the individuals you were criticizing before deciding to utilize the slanderous labels?

If so, do you have evidence that demonstrates your claims of racism or xenophobia are founded?

Does your tendency to call others names give us reason to doubt your ability to be a team player?

Your record shows you vehemently protested the election results of 2016, even though it was a lawful election that was held according to the parameters outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Does your inability to abide by an election result mean you might have difficulty abiding by the policies, procedures, and decisions of this company?

Should we be concerned that you may not respect the authority of your supervisor?

Our impression is that you resisted some of the results of the 2016 election because you were very angry. Have you resolved your anger issues and should it cause us concern if you were employed here?

We also understand that you have gone through periods in which you were distraught, fearful, and depressed—to the point that you had to seek emotional security in a “safe zone” at the university you attended. Is your emotional constitution sufficient to carry out your duties at work, even in the midst of difficulty?

During the times in which you engaged in a protest, did you take part in any unlawful activities, such as destruction of property, inciting civil unrest, or blocking pedestrian or automobile traffic?

During times in which you took part in a protest did you miss work or class? If so, could you explain the steps you took to make sure you met your obligations?

There are many individuals who, as a part of recent protests, have called for the expansion of social entitlement programs such as free college tuition for all. Do you share the same views? If so, have you done an economic and budgetary study to support the feasibility of such a program? Would you be prepared to explain the results?

To justify your involvement in post- election protests, have you organized your thoughts into an evidence-based defense of your cause? Could you articulate such a defense? Could you produce a written report that is supported by research?

We understand that history has many examples of brave individuals who have sought to bring about social, political, or religious change. Some of them include Martin Luther, Thomas Jefferson, Ghandi, Booker T. Washington, Martin Luther King Jr. and Jesus of Nazareth. Could you explain how your own efforts align with any or all of these individuals? And could you explain the moral rationale by which you have taken action against the established laws and traditions of the United States?

In this position, we need a thoughtful individual who is characterized by loyalty, stability, and dependability. Do you wish to draw from any of your experiences and efforts to explain why you are the kind of person we need?

You can see that an interview of this nature would call upon the candidate to be honestly introspective and to deal with some of the realities of today’s world.

And that’s important, because somehow, as a nation, we need to insist that everyone think things through before they act.

Specifically, many people need to be reminded that to make America a better place, we can’t force any change by trampling on everything that the country has traditionally held sacred.

Furthermore, if one wants to make a positive difference, he or she must make cordial connections and establish respectful friendships. No one makes progress by making enemies.

Incidentally, offended and distressed individuals should note that burning an American flag doesn’t make more citizens sympathetic to their anger. If anything, it has the opposite effect.

Seeking constructive dialogue and workable solutions is far better than relishing animosity, conflict, and division.

So, the most appropriate guidance we can provide to the disgruntled in America today comes in the form of a message that sounds like the end of a job interview:

Good luck to you. Opportunities are still quite abundant in America. We will consider your credentials, and if you have what it takes to be a part of America’s success story, we’ll be in touch.