For nearly two months, television news coverage and social media feeds have been flooded with images of protesters taking to the streets in response to the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police. The images have prompted widespread concern, including among many conservatives, who have called for a restoration of law and order, particularly after outbursts of vandalism and violence.

But it is important for conservatives to take a step back and remember that the brazen acts of lawlessness we have witnessed are largely the work of small groups of looters and other radical opportunists seeking to take advantage of protests. With noteworthy exceptions, most of the protests and most of the protesters have been lawful and share common ground with conservatives on important principles, including ensuring equality under the law and protecting everyone’s civil liberties, no matter their background.