That's fantastic actually. It's a peaceful protest, why shouldn't the police be non-threatening as well? Having seen docs on the Battle in Seattle, I think part of the reason protests go sour is the over-threatening appearance of cops and the provocation that goes with it. There's no need for massive shields and riot gear. I think protesters would be far less likely to go overboard if the police didn't go overboard as well.
For a bit of an analogy, a lot of people think hockey is actually more dangerous with helmets and better equipment than it was before helmets became mandatory. That might seem strange, but the extra security of a helmet and better equipment actually caused players to be more reckless and have less respect for the safety of their opponent. if there's mutual respect, then there's a better chance at avoiding a negative outcome.
