Protesters from Seaside to La Grande are preparing to rally across Oregon on Saturday, coinciding with former President Donald Trump’s birthday and a planned military parade in Washington, D.C. The events are part of a coordinated “No Kings” movement aimed at voicing opposition to Trump and his administration.
In Portland, the largest turnout is expected, with at least four demonstrations scheduled in and around the downtown area. Two major protests will take place along Naito Parkway—one at Salmon Street Springs beginning at 11:30 a.m. and another at the Battleship Oregon Memorial in Tom McCall Waterfront Park starting at noon.
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Other protests are planned in northeast Portland, including outside the Oregon Convention Center and on the Northeast 20th Avenue overpass above Interstate 84, both starting at 10:30 a.m.
The city has already seen several days of protest activity, including demonstrations outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building. A few arrests have been made in connection with alleged property damage and assaults on officers. Despite this, organizers say Saturday’s events are expected to remain peaceful.
In Beaverton, organizers anticipate over 1,000 participants. Callie Peters of the Washington County Democrats emphasized the message behind the protest: “We want to take back the flag and show them what true patriotism is.” The event will begin at 2:30 p.m. in Beaverton City Park at Southwest Fifth Street and Hall Boulevard. Scheduled speakers include Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty, Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai, and state Senator Lisa Reynolds.
La Grande is also preparing for a sizable protest, with organizers expecting 200 to 300 attendees. Cheryl Campbell, one of the organizers, cited environmental concerns as a major motivation. “We have protected forests and a lot of farmland that are threatened due to recent policy,” she said.
In Clackamas, a demonstration will be held at Clackamas Town Center at noon. U.S. Representative Janelle Bynum is expected to speak.
Government officials have voiced support for peaceful demonstrations. Governor Tina Kotek stated, “I support Oregonians’ right to peacefully demonstrate – it is a cornerstone of American democracy,” while also warning against violence or illegal activity. “Violence, harm to public safety workers, destruction of property, or any illegal activity whatsoever will not be tolerated.”
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez, and the Portland Police Bureau echoed those sentiments, urging protestors to respect the law and each other.
“If you feel so compelled to come out, to have your voice heard, to protest, great, have at it, but do it with respect for each other and for our incredible community,” Vasquez said. “If you see someone getting out of hand, tell them to knock it off. If you assault someone, if you burn things, if you decide to break things, you’re going to deal with me.
