Portland Rises Up Against Trump and ICE with Two Saturday Protests
On June 14, approximately 50,000 protesters rallied in Portland's Waterfront Park during a “No Kings” demonstration against the Trump administration. This event was part of a larger nationwide effort involving over 2,000 protests, which collectively attracted more than five million participants. Local officials condemned ICE's recent actions, which have included unlawful detentions of immigrants, and emphasized the importance of standing in solidarity with affected communities. City Council President Elana Pirtle-Guiney articulated the need for nonviolent resistance against federal actions targeting immigrants. Councilor Angelita Morillo, the only immigrant on the City Council, shared her emotional connection to the issue, highlighting her family's history of fleeing authoritarianism.
Protesters displayed signs critical of ICE and government overreach, with chants ranging from “Show me what democracy looks like! ” to “There’s no justice if there’s just ICE. ” The march concluded with a smaller group walking to an ICE facility, demonstrating a commitment to continued activism. This rally underscores the growing tension between local communities and federal immigration policies.