Member-only story
Riot in Boston: An unjust law sparks a united movement
What happened when a sanctuary city was pushed too far
Anthony Burns was doing okay in his first months in Boston. He’d gotten a job in a clothing store on Brattle Street, found a place to live, and was beginning to build a new life in free America. Tonight, May 24, was a fine spring evening.
As he and his boss closed up the shop, Burns decided to go for a stroll and enjoy the scenery. Normally, he would walk home with Mr. Pitts, with whom he boarded as well. But it would be nice to stretch his legs and look around Cornhill, with its bustling retail shops and literary scene.
As he reached the corner of Hanover and Court Streets at the edge of Scollay Square, someone grabbed him by the shoulder. Burns turned quickly, thinking that he was about to defend himself from a street brawler. He stared into the angry face of a white man.
“You’re under arrest,” the man snarled. “I have a warrant stating that you robbed a jewelry store near here. I’m taking you in.”
Burns shook his head, confused. “You’re mistaken. I’ve done no such thing.”
From out of the shadows, six or seven more men appeared. They grabbed Burns, lifted him off the ground, and carried him to the courthouse nearby. On the steps, a…
