US, Canada: Pro-Palestinian demonstrations scheduled in several cities May 15-19 /update 1

Further rallies by pro-Palestinian activists are scheduled in several cities across the US and Canada through mid-May in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The following events are among the demonstrations confirmed by organizers:

US

• Cleveland, Ohio: Market Square, 18:00 May 15

• Seattle, Washington: The Quad University of Washington, 18:00 May 15

• New Orleans, Louisiana: City Council, 09:30 May 16; Jackson Square, 16:00 May 18

• Houston, Texas: 4625 Southwest Freeway, 18:30 May 16

• Washington, DC: National Mall on 3rd Street SW, 13:00 May 18

• Atlanta, Georgia: Old CNN Headquarters, 14:30 May 18

• Austin, Texas: Texas State Capitol, 13:00 May 19

Canada

• Ottawa, Ontario: Tabaret Lawn, 18:00 May 15

• Montreal, Quebec: Dorchester Square, 14:00 May 18

• Vancouver, British Columbia: Vancouver Art Gallery, 14:00 May 18

Most demonstrations that materialize will probably draw several hundred attendees, and participation in the thousands or tens of thousands is possible in some major cities.

Authorities will likely deploy an increased security presence near any related gatherings. Clashes between groups of rival activists have occurred, but most demonstrations are likely to be peaceful. There have also been occasional reports of other forms of confrontational behavior, including harassment, vandalism, and the removal of flags or posters placed by opposing groups. Additionally, some schools and religious centers may close or limit their hours of operation. Localized security-related transport and business disruptions cannot be ruled out.