Young Boy’s Act of Kindness Shines Through Charlotte Unrest

As riots rage in Charlotte, North Carolina, one mother’s tale of her son’s kindness stands out.

Deanna Hooker shared her story and photos with Love What Matters, detailing how her son wanted to express his appreciation for police officers after hearing the terrifying sounds of rioting all night.

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“I wanted to share a little story and shed some love and light on a very tough time for us in Charlotte, NC. Our streets are at war with protests and division has led to destruction and violence in our city. My son heard helicopters and sirens all night and woke up crying. We decided to send him to school the next day to offer normalcy in a tough time for our city. On the way he heard about police getting injured from protests on the radio. He asked me if he could bring the police donuts and give them hugs for all they do. It is amazing how much children can teach us during times like this. I respected his wishes and took him to the Charlotte PD where he gave out hugs and donuts and told every officer he appreciated all they do to keep us safe. This is love in its purest form and what our world needs right now.”

Hours after those photos were taken, Charlotte experienced a third straight night of unrest over the police shooting of Keith Lamont Scott. However, unlike the previous nights the protests remained peaceful for the most part. That said, controversy still remains on if and when police will release the body-cam footage of the hotly debated shooting to the public.

Hooker’s photos serve as a reminder that, even in the worst of times, simple acts of human kindness can shine through.