As vandals and rioters deface and topple statues around the country, I am reminded of their importance—something steadfastly absorbed during my long residence in the D.C.-metro area. History matters, whether or not racially- and politically-motivated demonstrators and property destroyers think otherwise. Among history’s lessons is irony: That protestors demanding justice use tactics no less intimidating or terrorizing than the people past (or present) whom they accuse and demand be expunged from the American lexicon.
Taking my small stand, on behalf of our heritage, I present the Featured Image of people lined up on a brisk Spring day to see the Washington Monument. I used Canon EOS 20D and EF 135mm f/2 USM lens to capture the moment on April 7, 2007. Vitals: f/7.1, ISO 125, 1/500 sec, 135mm; 11:49 a.m. EDT.