Thousands Unite in Peaceful ‘No Kings’ Protest in Portland While ICE Facility Response Turns Chaotic

Thousands of people gathered across Oregon on Saturday in a series of protests against the Trump administration, coinciding with the president’s 79th birthday. This was part of a nationwide movement called “No Kings,” which included over 2,000 events across all 50 states. The timing aligned with Trump’s attendance at a military parade celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary.

In Portland, the atmosphere was charged. Hundreds started rallying at the Oregon Convention Center, quickly growing to thousands as they filled over ten blocks. Many carried flags and signs, expressing their dissatisfaction with policies they viewed as authoritarian. Chants echoed through the streets, reflecting a unified stance against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and federal law enforcement activities.

The crowd later moved to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where police had to close off parts of the street due to the overflow. Among the creative displays was a large inflatable golden calf designed to look like Trump, highlighting concerns about his perceived elevation to a quasi-divine status. Rev. Dr. Shannon Fleck stated that this idolatry is harmful and shouldn’t be tolerated.

Protesters voiced a variety of concerns. Some focused on immigration and the treatment of immigrant communities, while others expressed anxiety over economic issues and the overall political climate. One demonstrator, Jody Dungay, spoke out against political violence, referencing the recent killings of Minnesota lawmakers. She expressed her fear of deepening political divides in the country.

Mike Kaplan highlighted the lack of respect for science in the current administration’s policies, particularly regarding ICE’s deportations. A.J. Stutzman, an Army veteran, shared his alarm over what he perceived as corruption and lawlessness, stating he feared that the military was being turned against citizens.

Many expressed concerns for immigrant families and the working class. Ivan Paulik Aguilar emphasized the privilege of protesting, knowing that many wish to join but feel unsafe. Similarly, Michelline Yumul, a child of immigrants, articulated her fears about the fragile status of families striving for better lives in America.

As the protests intensified, participants marched through downtown Portland, causing significant traffic disruptions. Chris Stone, a veteran protester, asserted that peaceful protest is a powerful tool against tyranny. He recalled how protests contributed to the end of the Vietnam War.

While many protests remained peaceful, tensions escalated later in the day when clashes broke out at the ICE building. Police deemed the situation an unlawful assembly, leading to the use of tear gas to disperse crowds. Despite this confrontation, many demonstrations across Oregon remained joyful and civil.

In Medford, around 3,000 people gathered, while other cities like Beaverton and Eugene also hosted significant events. Participating in the protests offered individuals like Tom Pham, an immigrant from Vietnam, a chance to push back against nostalgia for a troubling past.

Statistics show that political protests have become more frequent in recent years, with a Gallup poll indicating that 77% of Americans agree that peaceful protests are a crucial way to express views. This collective energy and mobilization reflect growing public concern over issues like immigration, healthcare, and political representation.

The protests indicate a significant moment in U.S. history, as people from all walks of life come together to call for change. The overarching sentiment is clear: many are determined to fight for their beliefs and protect democracy for future generations.

For more insights on political protests and their impacts, check out the Pew Research Center’s analysis on civic engagement.



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