US: Protests turn to riots in Portland (Oregon) June 30

Event

Two opposing protest groups - right-wing group Patriot Prayer and an anti-fascist group - clashed in downtown Portland (Oregon) on Saturday, June 30, prompting police to revoke Patriot Prayer's rally permit, declare the situation a riot, and order participants on both sides to disperse. Multiple people have reportedly been arrested, and authorities warned that failure to leave the area could lead to further arrests. Although the situation has calmed as of 20:45, an increased security presence and residual transportation disruptions should continue to be expected.

The situation began with an authorized "freedom rally" organized by Patriot Prayer at Terry Schrunk Plaza, beginning at 16:00 (local time), although attendees began to gather earlier. Anti-fascist counter-protesters also gathered across the street at Chapman Square. Heckling between the two groups deteriorated into violence shortly after 18:00, when Patriot Prayer protesters began to march on 3rd Avenue. Protesters from both groups reportedly threw projectiles at the other side, and injuries were reported. Police reportedly responded with paintballs filled with pepper spray to disperse the crowd. 

Earlier in the day on Saturday, a larger, peaceful demonstration took place without major incident as part of a series of hunreds of protests planned across the US on June 30 to denounce President Trump's controversial "zero-tolerance" immigration policy, which has led to thousands of children being separated from their parents at the US-Mexico border while trying to seek asylum. Thousands of people reportedly gathered at North Park Blocks in downtown Portland for the June 30 event, but no violence was reported.

Context

The Patriot Prayer event was organized by Joey Gibson, leader of the group and a Senate candidate from Washington state. A similar event was held on June 3, which was also met with a large group of counter-protesters and also turned violent. Four people were arrested as a result of those clashes. 

Advice

Individuals present in Portland are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.