1 day Ago
It is not known whether there are any plans for mass protests during Saturday's parade, but sources have indicated that police are monitoring nine such actions planned throughout the city. On Monday, a big, peaceful protest was held in downtown Washington D.C., and other protest were expected throughout the week, including one in the Columbia Heights neighborhood.
Protestors Demand Justice as Enforcement Increases
The protests have been galvanized by the Trump administration's immigration raids and its reaction to unrest in California, where thousands of troops were sent to deal with the situation. Tensions escalated after labor leader David Huerta was arrested in Los Angeles. Huerta, the president of California SEIU chapter, was taken to the hospital with injuries he suffered during the arrest and was released on bail Monday evening. He now faces an arsenal charge, which is a felony conspiracy violation, and which carries a potential six-year federal prison term.
In Washington, D.C., protesters demonstrated outside the Justice Department calling for Huerta's release and an end to the immigration crackdown. The group included union members, and other groups marched behind signs and chanted at federal officials. Some participants also criticized the administration's travel ban, which took effect officially on Monday and applies to people from 19 countries. There were concerns about the impact of the ban on migrants already in the United States or going through visa approval.
Trump Promises 'Strongest Statues You Can Have' in Election as Protests Persist Across Country
If there are any disruptions during the parade, President Trump has promised a response with "very heavy force." "I haven't even heard anything about a protest, but [there are] people that hate our country," he added. Protesters in several American cities have faced off with authorities throughout the week, and dozens of arrests have been made in states including New York and Texas. FBI headquarters workers in Washington looked down at the chants in the streets from their balconies.
"You are all disgusted and appalled at what has happened in the recent mass ICE raids," said Representative Pramila Jayapal to the crowd. Protesters expressed anger and determination to return, some chanting "We'll be back." The Department of Homeland Security renewed its vow to law enforcement, and it's hard to blame it: deja-vus, whatever you may think of clowns, don't deserve to be assaulted by a mob. Vice President Kristi Noem reminded everyone that anyone who attacked officers would be facing full prosecution. With tensions escalating, and neither side backing down, another high-profile parade approach is being overshadowed by charged feelings.
