In a bold and unconventional protest, the ranks of Portland’s so-called “Antifa army” swelled over the weekend with a new cohort of protesters who were both unarmed and, quite literally, unclothed. The Portland World Naked Bike Ride organized an off-season Emergency Naked Bike Ride, drawing hundreds of participants to the streets of Portland on Sunday afternoon. Their aim: to protest the Trump administration’s attempt to deploy the National Guard to the city in response to a nonexistent terror threat.
Protest Against Militarization and Immigration Policies
The naked bike ride was a symbolic and creative stand against the escalating militarization of Portland and the adverse impact on immigrant and indigenous communities. In an Instagram post, World Naked Bike Ride Portland stated, “We are using this protest to bring attention to the Militarization of Portland and the ongoing and escalating harm that is happening to our immigrant and indigenous communities.” The protest also comes at a time when a judge temporarily blocked Trump’s order to deploy the National Guard, with an appeals court decision pending.
A Joyful and Peaceful Protest
Despite heavy rain and temperatures in the 50s, the protesters, many of them in various stages of undress, mounted their bikes and rode through the city, making a statement about freedom, resistance, and solidarity. Starting from the city’s convention center, the group staged a “die-in” at a bridge and continued their ride towards the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building, all the while chanting, dancing, and celebrating in protest. The event was described by organizers as “a very peaceful form of protest,” emphasizing that joy, mutual respect, and kindness are forms of protest in themselves.
The protest also coincided with ongoing demonstrations that have been active since June, which have included an eclectic mix of participants, such as protesters dressed in frog, chicken, dinosaur, unicorn, axolotl, and banana costumes, and even a unicycling bagpiper. The energy of the protest has remained spirited, with a mix of chanting to hip-hop music, belting out show tunes, and even a segment featuring an interview with comedian Jordan Klepper of The Daily Show.
The Resistance Continues
While the protests have been more rowdy than aggressive, with a few dozen arrests over time, the sentiment is clear: the resistance to the Trump administration’s policies is far from deterred. Participants have faced off against federal agents in camouflaged gear, known to deploy tear gas and pepper balls. However, many of the demonstrators have remained focused on their peaceful, joyful methods of protest, even as tensions remain high.
A recent statement from the Portland Police Bureau assistant chief suggested that federal police might have played a role in instigating some of the clashes, according to The Oregonian, further intensifying the already complex situation between local protesters and federal law enforcement.
A Call for Action and Support
World Naked Bike Ride Portland concluded their post with a call for solidarity and support for their cause, saying, “Being together with mutual respect and kindness is a form of protest.” In this era of political unrest, the protesters’ message is one of unity, respect, and the refusal to remain silent in the face of unjust policies.
As the protests continue, Portland stands as a symbol of resistance, where even the most unconventional acts, such as a naked bike ride, serve as powerful statements against political oppression.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
