18 Jul 2019 | 08:39 AM UTC
US: Further protests planned by Puerto Rican groups in Cincinnati, Denver, and Los Angeles July 18, 20
Puerto Ricans demanding the governor’s resignation schedule protests in Cincinnati, Denver, and Los Angeles July 18, 20; heightened security measures expected
Event
Puerto Ricans have scheduled further protests calling for Governor Ricardo Rossello's resignation in three cities.
On Thursday, July 18, members of the Puerto Rican community will gather in Cincinnati, Ohio at the Fountain Square at 18:30 (local time). Also on Thursday, the Puerto Rican Diaspora in Colorado will gather in Denver, Colorado at the Civic Center Park at 17:30 (local time).
On Saturday, July 20, supporters of the groups Puerto Ricans in Action and the Puerto Rican community in Southern California are gathering in Los Angeles, California at the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue at 15:00 (local time).
A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected near all gatherings.
Context
Protesters have marched in Puerto Rico over the previous week to demand that Governor Ricardo Rossello resign following reports published by a non-profit organization exposing conversations between the Governor and his cabinet. The conversations involved the use of sexist, homophobic, and misogynistic language. Despite admitting having written the messages, Rossello has resisted calls to resign.
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation has implicated other members of Rossello's cabinet in fraud, conspiracy, and other corruption-related investigations over the last several months, forcing several members to resign.
Protesters and police clashed at a protest in San Jose on July 17, when protesters violated the perimeter set near the governor's residence. Protesters used fireworks, gasoline, and liquids, among other things, against agents. Police dispersed protesters with tear gas.
Advice
Individuals in Cincinnati, Denver, and Hollywood are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized disruptions and a heightened security presence near any demonstrations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
