“Last night, and throughout the day I have been briefed on events in and around Ferguson. I was disappointed that some members of the community resorted to violence, rather than respecting what I thought were the really heartfelt words of Michael Brown Sr. and the wishes he expressed that he wanted his son’s memory to be honored with non-violence. It is clear that those acts of violence threaten to drown out those that have legitimate voices, legitimate demonstrators. Those acts cannot and will not be condoned. By contrast, I’m very encouraged that some of the more peaceful last night as well as today have occurred and have been in keeping with Mr. Brown’s request. I would remind demonstrators of our history, that those, the way we have made progress in this country has been when we have seen peaceful, non-violent demonstrations, that has led to change that has been the most long lasting and the most pervasive.”