Mass fights between ANTIFA and Proud Boys: About 15 people arrested
Portland has become the center of confrontation between extreme right and extreme left supporters. On August 17, a rally organized by the Proud Boys was held. According to the rally, it was aimed at all proponents of anti-fascism being proclaimed as "an internal terrorist organization."
The police defended the rally, saying that they intend to protect the rights of Americans to freedom of speech.
PPB and our partners are here to protect everyone's safety while facilitating everyone's 1st Amendment right to gather and speak. It is the foundation of our democracy and critical to Portland's identity.
— Portland Police (@PortlandPolice) August 17, 2019
All police forces were aimed at ending conflicts at the very beginning. Therefore, officers seized a large number of weapons - bear spray, shields, and metal and wooden poles. But despite the efforts of the officers, about a dozen people received various injuries.
#ppbalert Officers have seized weapons from multiple groups, including bear spray, shields, and metal and wooden poles. pic.twitter.com/NY2KEK8c8Y
— Portland Police (@PortlandPolice) August 17, 2019
President Donald Trump also spoke out in defense of the rally, calling antifa activists a “terrorist group,” which runs counter to a statement by the mayor of Portland, Ted Wheeler. According to the mayor-democrat, far-right activists provoke a sense of fear in Americans, as well as insult women, immigrants and LGBT people.
Major consideration is being given to naming ANTIFA an “ORGANIZATION OF TERROR.” Portland is being watched very closely. Hopefully the Mayor will be able to properly do his job!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 17, 2019
"We do not want them here in my city, period," Wheeler said.
