We have rules in place that allow the population to peacefully protest without interfering with the business of others. These people didn't follow the rules and were punished accordingly just like every other law on the books.

If you are unable to enact the change you want from within the system it's because not enough people agree with the change you are proposing.

Welcome to the complexities of Society.

If you don't want to participate you don't have to. Abandon the laws of man and return to the laws of nature. Just remember the law of nature demands conflict be resolved in the favor of the more powerful will. I doubt very much you would fair well.