It was broadcast on Social Media as a peaceful protest against the decision of the Supreme Court of the United State (SCOTUS) overturning the Roe vs Wade decision that has been in effect for nearly 50 years.

About a dozen or so Pro-Life protesters began arriving much earlier than 6 p.m. and took up positions on the sidewalks at the intersection.

            Organizers planned the protest to begin on Wednesday, July 6, and take place from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Square in Pennsburg – where Routes 29 and 663 intersect. The location is a popular place allowing for high-visibility and ample space.

            But, it was more than that.

            About a dozen or so Pro-Life protesters began arriving much earlier and took up positions on the sidewalks surrounding the intersection.  After that, the crowd continued to grow until around 5:50 p.m. when more than 200 Pro-Choice and Pro-Life protesters filled the sidewalks there.

The crowd continued to grow until around 5:50 p.m. when more than 200 Pro-Choice and Pro-Life protesters filled the sidewalks.

            The mixing of opposing groups appeared to be awkward at first, with a mingling of opposing protest signs being held next to each other and the chants.  To all of the protesters credit, with the exception of some pushing while jockeying for a better position, the protest was, peaceful on both sides.

            The intersection, which is normally busy at that time of day, became congested as traffic slowed to view the protesters and their message.  Horns were honking though it was hard to tell who the driver was supporting as the sidewalk was filled with sign-carriers standing side-by side.

            Only one minor traffic accident was witnessed on Main Street during the event.

            After seeing newscasts of protests that turned violent, causing injury and property damage, it was welcoming to witness people of differing views, in close proximity, in peaceful protest.

            Upper Perk Police Chief Joe Adams, Jr. and his officers kept a watchful eye on all and were quick to intercept disagreements or actions that could have escalated.  No arrests were made during the protest.

            By 6:35 p.m. the crowd began to thin out, and 10 minutes later most were gone.  By 7:15 p.m. one would not have known that 200+ people gathered there to exercise their First Amendment Right to peacefully gather for their respective causes.

            But, the reaction on Social Media was anything but social as the restraint showed by protest participants waned once people returned to their phones and keyboards.  Arguments for and against, some displaying disrespect and outright hatred, quickly appeared.

            Fortunately, the people on the social media sites waited until the public protests were over.