On Saturday, October 11, 2025, a protest erupted outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland. Around 200 demonstrators voiced their opposition to the Trump administration’s immigration policies. The gathering featured music, costumes, and performance art, but ended in confrontation when federal officers deployed tear gas and other crowd control measures.
Protest Details
Participants spent hours protesting despite rain showers, which added to the atmosphere. The demonstration took place outside the Portland ICE office, drawing attention from the local community. The crowd engaged in spirited chants against federal actions concerning immigration enforcement.
- Protesters utilized a portable speaker for music, creating a festive environment.
- Federal officers stationed on the roof used stun grenades, tear gas, smoke, and pepper balls against the crowd.
Escalation of Conflict
As night fell, tensions escalated. Federal officers fired crowd control munitions without any apparent provocation. Demonstrators reacted by taking cover as the situation intensified. Many who had initially gathered did not disperse, though they retreated further from the building.
Incidents of confrontation were reported, including one where officers pushed a protester and minor scuffles occurred within the crowd. Police later arrested an individual named Harold Smith on a misdemeanor assault charge. Another person, Brian Wesley Crowell-Drogt, was cited after being treated for injuries at the hospital.
The Unique Atmosphere of Portland Protests
Among the crowd was performer Brian Kidd, known as the Unipiper, who rode a unicycle while playing bagpipes. His presence lightened the mood, with many participants enjoying the whimsical costumes. Attendees included various characters like Pikachu, SpongeBob, and a group of themed mascots.
Jess O’Neill, a bartender from Portland, spoke about her motivation to join the protest, citing a feeling of urgency to stand up against the administration’s policies. “As queer women, we feel our rights are under threat,” she explained.
Rejection of Partisan Messaging
In a related political development, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem had prepared a video for airport security checkpoints nationwide. However, the Port of Portland refused to air it at Portland International Airport. They noted that showing the video could violate laws against using public resources for partisan messaging.
Upcoming Events
The protests are set to continue, with local activist groups planning a clothing optional ’emergency’ demonstration, the World Naked Bike Ride, on Sunday. The event is anticipated to begin at 3 p.m. at the Oregon Convention Center Plaza, featuring a “die-in” on Burnside Bridge as part of their protest.
Protests in Portland highlight ongoing issues with immigration, civil rights, and government actions, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of civic engagement in the city.
