Labor Union Members Rally at South Portland ICE Facility
On Saturday, a significant rally took place in South Portland, starting from Elisabeth Caruthers Park and moving towards the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. The event featured participation from at least 17 labor unions across Oregon, including the Oregon Nurses Association, SEIU, Teamsters, and the Federal Unionists Network.
Overview of the Protest
The evening gathered thousands of participants, as confirmed by the Portland Police Bureau (PPB). While no official crowd counts were released, the PPB acknowledged that attendance was substantial.
Law Enforcement Presence
As the rally progressed, the PPB actively monitored the large crowd. Reports indicated that federal agents deployed crowd-control munitions, possibly tear gas, near the ICE facility. The PPB clarified they did not use any such munitions during the protest.
- Time of Incident: Reports of crowd-control measures were noted during the rally.
- Location: South Portland, near the ICE facility.
Protester Sentiments
Malena Marvin, a key voice at the protest, expressed the moral significance of the gathering. She highlighted the need to stand against injustice, stating, “Are we gonna let secret police kill people right in front of us?” Her comments emphasized the collective sentiment against the presence of ICE in Portland.
Marvin further asserted that the large turnout conveyed a clear message: the community does not welcome ICE. She praised the role of organized labor in mobilizing the protest, signifying a new chapter in collective action within Oregon.
Traffic Disruptions
With the crowd spilling onto streets, PPB reported road closures, specifically on South Curry Street between South Moody Avenue and South Bond Avenue. Temporary closures also affected South Macadam Avenue due to the dispersal of irritant gas observed around South Bancroft Street.
- Street Closures: South Curry Street, South Bancroft Street at South Macadam Avenue.
- Public Safety Measures: Officers in white uniforms and bike teams were deployed to oversee safety measures.
Background Context
The demonstration in South Portland is part of ongoing anti-ICE protests that have gained momentum in the city since summer. A surge of protests has followed incidents of violence linked to federal immigration enforcement, including two notable shootings by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in January.
These recent events intensified public sentiment against immigration policies and fostered a continued demand for reform within federal agency operations. The protests reflect a larger national conversation on immigration enforcement and community safety.
As demonstrations continue, the community of South Portland remains resolute in voicing its opposition to ICE activities, reinforcing the importance of solidarity among labor unions and local residents.
