United States: May 1 protests turn violent in downtown Portland

Event

May Day protests in downtown Portland, Oregon, turned violent at around 16:30 (local time), leading police to instruct everyone, including peaceful demonstrators, to vacate the area. According to police, protesters threw incendiary devices at officers, including fireworks, smoke bombs, and Molotov cocktails. Police responded with nonlethal impact and chemical munitions to disperse the violent protesters, many of whom were reportedly arrested. One police vehicle was destroyed and news outlets reported damage to multiple buildings in the vicinity. This is an ongoing situation; avoid the area.

To the north, May Day protests were relatively calm in Seattle, where May 1 protests have historically resulted in violent clashes with police. Seattle police reported that as of 19:00 just two arrests had been made as a result of protests. Severe transportation disruptions are anticipated.

Context

May Day, also called Labour Day or International Workers' Day, is celebrated annually in countries around the world. It is closely associated with international labor, socialist, communist, and anarchist movements. Violent demonstrations and protests, particularly those connected to anarchist groups, are not uncommon.

Seattle traditionally experiences large, often violent May Day protests. In 2016, five officers were injured in clashes with protesters.

Advice

Individuals in Portland and Seattle are advised to avoid all demonstrations and rallies, follow any instructions issued by the local authorities, and anticipate transportation delays. Monitor the situation via reliable media sources.