This photograph is one that seems a little out of place and odd if you're not aware of the background. It was taken on June 15, 2011 in Vancouver, following game seven of the Stanley Cup, where the Boston Bruins beat the Vancouver Canucks to win the Stanley Cup. Extreme riots followed in the city, with many fires, fights, and car flippings. Police officers filled the streets and tried to stop the rioters, but it wasn't expected that there would be this many angry people going to such measures. There were 17 cars burned (including police cars), windows smashed in, looting, transportation problems, and a total of 101 arrests made. This photo shows a man kissing his girlfried (later known to be Alexandra Thomas and Scott Jones) amid all the fights and riots. Apparently, they had been in the wrong place at the wrong time and were knocked over by police officers. In that moment, she was freaking out and he kissed her, trying to calm her down so he could help her. It went viral in the days after the Stanley Cup final.
I just learned about this photo, but I find it fascinating. I think it's a great symbol of love in the middle of hate and while it's simple, Jones showing his care for Thomas in this kiss is powerful. In this moment, there are cars being burned and windows being smashed in all around this couple. These people had been pushed around trying to get out of the riots just before this photo was taken, but in this moment, the couple felt care for each other. Call me a sappy romantic, but I find this photo beautiful.
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