The author is trying to invoke a sense of empathy. For one, he discusses how the protestors were being peacefully, showing that they were doing no harm.
He then proceeds to discuss how they were physically hurt for protesting and one was even killed. He uses the term “man of god” to appeal to the readers sense of religion and to make readers feel bad for this individual. Overall, this person is trying to bring to light an injustice that occurred in society.