A physical action (like occupying infrastructure) that limits other people’s freedom to move, or brings harm to them or their property, is a violent act to most people. The only people that would claim otherwise are those who want to downplay illegal acts that align with their own politics.

Here’s a definition for ‘violence’, so you’re clear on how blocking highways is violence:

> violence: an unjust or unwarranted exertion of force or power, as against rights or laws

Here’s a definition for riot, so you’re clear on how a violent takeover of public infrastructure constitutes a riot:

> riot: “public violence, tumult, or disorder“