You know your son best. Talk about why you think it will be something important and that he will look back on and value having done. You can also get to the reason he doesn’t want to go and possibly work through that.

It can turn pretty nasty in a heartbeat (tho we all hope it wouldn't). I'd say it's okay to let him stay home. If it all turns out okay and he's interested, you guys can go for the inauguration on the 20th too!

If you bring him, you’re responsible for anything that happens to him.

Do you want that to factor into your ability to participate in whatever happens on the 6th?

tell him if he goes , you will hand him a brand new Made in USA Buck Knife.

and when you get back, you will take him to an NRA Gun Instructor.

Get inauguration tickets for both of you. Leave him home for the battle unless he’s ready for that.

Personally (raised 4) making teens do stuff doesn't work well. I wish I had worked more on inspiring and motivating. He's not into politics. You may make him hate it even more.

My husband said see if there are some things he wants to do in DC. If so, offer to do them after the protest.

I wouldn't leave him alone though. He goes or he's with his grandparents or something (unless you have left him home for a weekend before and can trust him).

You have to make them study and do chores. Adding extra curricular stuff he hates for a long time isn't going to inspire.

Hearing the stories and seeing your videos when you get back may inspire him to get involved later.

Just my take - I made my kids do everything and it's taken a long time to undo the damage.

I would tell him to get in the car.