Central Oregon residents take part in ‘Walk Out for Freedom’ protest against ICE in Bend
KTVZ – News Team
Update: Video from Jan 20th protest in Bend
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– Protesters gathered today in both Bend and Redmond as part of the ongoing Fifty-Fifty-One series of demonstrations.
Today’s protests focused on opposing ICE raids and the deployment of troops against American civilians. The timing coincided with the one-year anniversary of Donald Trump taking office.
Julie Hudson, Bend resident told KTVZ news “My message today is we live under the Constitution. It’s the responsibility of our elected leaders to live by our Constitution.”
Frank Florence, Bend resident also told KTVZ news “Well, I think it shows that people take this very seriously, and they’re coming out on a day where, no, it isn’t very comfortable to be here.”
Between three and four o’clock, demonstrators in Bend moved from Peace Corner to the front of the Social Security Office on Franklin Avenue. Organizers described it as a “walk-out” protest, with people leaving their workplaces and classrooms to join.
Below is our previous post:
Central Oregonians are invited to participate in the Walk Out for Freedom on Jan. 20th, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event will take place at the Peace Corner and the Social Security Building in Bend, to protest against various issues affecting local communities under the current administration.
Organized by 50501 Central Oregon in collaboration with Women’s March National, this protest aims to address concerns over actions against immigrants, attacks on U.S. citizens and a perceived erosion of the rule of law. Participants are encouraged to walk out from their workplaces and schools at 2 p.m. local time, joining a nationwide call for action.
Here’s a breakdown of the schedule from 50501 Central Oregon:
2 PM: Walkout will begin at 2pm local time across the United States.
2:30-3:30 PM: Peace Corner protest in Bend.
3:30 PM: Participants will march to the Social Security building at 250 NW Franklin St.
4 PM: Participants join Indivisible Bend “Resist MAGA” protest at the Social Security Building.
5 PM: Event ends
The event organizers emphasize a commitment to nonviolent action, stressing the importance of de-escalation and lawful behavior during the protests. Volunteers will be present to facilitate peaceful interactions and maintain focus on the event’s goals.
Participants are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring handmade signs to express their messages. More information about walk-out ideas can be found at the 50501 Central Oregon website, including links to pledge participation.
50501 says community members are urged to join this organized effort to address ongoing concerns and to visibly express their commitment to protecting their freedoms.