On October 4, 2025, approximately 400 protesters gathered in South Portland to demonstrate against the potential deployment of National Guard troops at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. The protest began peacefully at Elizabeth Caruthers Park before participants marched several blocks to the ICE building located near the Willamette River.
Federal Agents Respond to Protest
As protesters approached the ICE facility, tensions escalated. Federal agents deployed tear gas and other crowd control methods, resulting in at least six arrests. The reasons for these arrests remain unclear. Protesters, comprising various ages and backgrounds, aimed to voice their concerns against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Voices of the Protesters
- Samantha Ibarra, a Marine Corps veteran, participated with her partner, expressing fears for her immigrant parents amidst rising anti-immigrant sentiments.
- Judy Goldman, an 87-year-old resident nearby, criticized media portrayals of Portland and felt that the federal response was unwarranted.
- Sandy Gallardo, a school mental health therapist, shared her family’s traumatic experiences with immigration officials, reinforcing the necessity of standing for their rights.
Protesters displayed signs with messages like “Diversity is our strength” and “ICE are the terrorists.” The diverse gathering included families, retirees, and individuals donning unique costumes. Onlookers supported the demonstration with bells and honking cars as the crowd marched towards the facility.
Confrontation with Federal Officers
As the demonstration intensified, a group of federal officers in gas masks advanced on the protesters. They utilized less-lethal weapons, including pepper balls and tear gas canisters, leading to confusion and distress among the attendees. Witnesses reported the arrest of several protest organizers and noted that the clash involved the physical confrontation of bystanders.
Despite the aggressive response, the mood briefly lightened as some protesters engaged in a playful rendition of the YMCA dance while waiting for further developments. However, the confrontation resumed as federal officers returned to the crowd and threw a dust bomb into the remaining demonstrators.
Judicial Review of Troop Deployment
Simultaneously, a federal judge was expected to deliver a ruling on whether to block President Trump’s order to mobilize 200 Oregon National Guard troops to assist with immigration enforcement in Portland. Questions surrounding the justification for such a move were raised during a recent hearing involving U.S. District Judge Karin J. Immergut.
This ongoing situation in Portland sheds light on the broader national debate surrounding immigration enforcement and community relations. The upcoming judicial decision may further influence the dynamics of federal and local responses to ongoing protests against ICE.
