US: Organizers plan protest outside the US Capitol in Washington, DC, Sept. 18

Event

Activists affiliated with the organization Look Ahead America intend to hold a protest outside the US Capitol in Washington, DC, Sept. 18. The purpose of the demonstration is to support individuals arrested in connection with the Jan. 6 storming of the US Capitol. Demonstrators intend to gather at Union Square along 3rd Street SW from 12:00.

Organizers requested a permit for up to 500 people to attend the rally, but a larger turnout is possible. Authorities are likely to put fencing around the US Capitol to protect the building. A large security deployment around the area is highly likely and clashes between demonstrators and police are possible; US Capitol Police have reportedly warned the event could turn violent. Localized transport disruptions are likely around the demonstration site. Counterprotests may also occur.

Context

The rally, called "Justice for J6," is likely to be the biggest demonstration in the vicinity of the US Capitol since the events of Jan. 6, when hundreds of people broke into the US Capitol building while members of Congress were gathered to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election. Hundreds of people, mostly security personnel, were injured in the unrest, and five people died.

Following Jan. 6, the area around the US Capitol was protected by fencing and thousands of security personnel ahead of the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration. A fence remained around the US Capitol until July.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration. Strictly heed instructions from authorities. Allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in Washington, DC, Sept. 18.