US: Activists to protest in various cities nationwide, Jan. 6

Event

Activists affiliated with various political organizations, including Flip it Red California and Overwatch USA, are planning nationwide protests in major cities across the US Jan. 6. The purpose of the demonstrations is to demand transparency in the election process; Jan. 6 is the day Congress formally counts the votes of the electoral college, following the nation's presidential election on Nov. 3.

Organizers have announced the following protest locations and times:

• Austin: Texas State Capitol, 1200

• Columbia: South Carolina State House, 1000

• Lincoln: Nebraska State Capitol, 1200

• Little Rock: Arkansas State Capitol, 1100

• Los Angeles: City Hall, 0900

• Olympia: Washington State Capitol, 1100

• Phoenix: Arizona State Capitol, 0900

• Sacramento: California State Capitol, 0900

• Minneapolis: Minnesota State Capitol, 1200

• Topeka: Kansas State Capitol, 1200

Gatherings are likely in other cities; impromptu or spontaneous demonstrations are possible in public squares, outside government buildings, and near major intersections. Counterprotests by opposing political parties are also possible. Protesters are organizing caravans and carpools to shuttle people to demonstration sites, possibly prompting traffic and transportation disruptions.

Security personnel will likely monitor protests. While violence is unlikely, clashes between opposing activists are possible. Traffic and transport disruptions are possible near any large gatherings or demonstrations.

Advice

Exercise caution near known or potential protest locations. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near demonstrations.