The neo-Nazis drew a lot of media coverage for their visit to the Capitol this weekend. And they drew a lot of protesters too.

Everything the neo-Nazis represent is despicable and backward. But that doesn't mean the media shouldn't report such a controversial demonstration.

The National Socialist Movement brought about 75 members to Lansing on Saturday to spread the idea of the preservation of Aryan heritage.

An organization that prompts the closing of businesses in a several-block radius around the Capitol is worthy of front page coverage despite how hateful its message is.

But the neo-Nazis are also deserving of the near 600 protesters who showed up to demonstrate against their bigoted stance.

The rally seems to have brought out the best and worst in the people of our community.

The scary part about such an extreme group, like the neo-Nazis, is the people in our very own neighborhoods who support or sympathize with their radical ideals. It's frightening to think about people who have similar perspectives but don't outwardly express their opinions, by wearing swastikas for example, but still mingle within our community daily.

But the good far outweighed the bad on Saturday. The positive thing about such a rally is that a variety of people came together to protest the neo-Nazis because they are such a widely despised organization.

A diverse community, like that in and around Lansing, should stand up for what it believes in. Having citizens agree and come together in order to share the message that Nazis are not welcome here is very important.

And although 16 people were arrested, that number is relatively low compared to the number of protestors who showed up.

There were about 500 police officers involved in keeping the rally in check. Protesters had to pass through security check points and were forced off the streets after the rally concluded.

Despite the fact that the neo-Nazis have the right to share their opinions, it's more important to note that the citizens of our community won't stand for letting the organization speak without countering its hateful message.

In the end, the rally was about as successful as something so awful could be.

The Nazis were able to represent their organization, the protesters were able to rally together for a greater good and the police managed to be responsible and keep the peace.