‘No Kings’ protests planned across Central Oregon
Claire Elmer
(Update: Adding video)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — This Saturday is Flag Day, the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday…and, a day of protests.
In response to the Trump administration’s recent controversial actions, the ‘No Kings’ movement has protests planned tomorrow in Prineville, Madras, Redmond, and Bend.
KTVZ News spoke with event volunteer, Cyndi Davis, to learn about the organization’s goals for the events.
“It’s a community action fair, to foster community, share information, talk about the impacts that this administration has had on local, Central Oregon nonprofits, and other groups. Our intent is to help educate folks about the power of democracy and our constitution and using your voice. We are 100% committed to nonviolent action, peaceful protesting,” said Davis.
Sheila Miller with Bend Police told KTVZ the department supports the public’s right to protest — officers will only be present at the Bend protest “if requested” by organizers, or if a crime occurs.
Organizers encourage you to come with an open mind and peaceful attitude. “We invite everyone to come and use their voice. That’s even with our hecklers and possibly people from the other side of this. We all have a voice. We respect that right that we have in this country to use your voice. We welcome everyone tomorrow to join in with that conversation. Put out a welcoming hand to them and invite them in and and have some conversation,” said Davis.
In response to the ‘No Kings’ protests, local supporters of President Trump have organized a ‘Ride and Drive’ event. That group changed course due to the downtown Bend cycling race, the Cascade Classic Cycling Criterium. They now plan to walk to drake park. KTVZ reached out to that event’s organizer for comment, but have not received a response.
Organizers of ‘No Kings’ emphasize a commitment to nonviolence, and say all participants are expected to de-escalate conflict, and keep the focus on peaceful action.
“Let’s use our energy to unify our voice, to support democracy, and our constitution. We hope that everybody puts their best foot forward when they show up to drake park and help us celebrate that uniqueness that the United States has and that we desire to keep,” said Davis.
KTVZ will be covering the events. Be sure to stay with us for updates throughout the weekend.
See below for times and locations across Central Oregon:
Prineville: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.; Pioneer Park – 450 NE Third St
Madras: 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.; North Y near Sonic Drive-In – US 26 and NW Maple St
Redmond: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.; Joann Fabric and Crafts – 732 SW 6th St
Bend: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. at Drake Park, followed by march to Peace Corner at Newport Avenue and Wall Street – 777 NW Riverside Blvd
*The Sisters protest has been canceled due to conflicting Sisters Rodeo events