Free Speech Events Anticipated Tonight – City of Portland, Oregon

June 24, 2022 17:56  Follow @PortlandPolice This evening, focused in Downtown Portland, we anticipate First Amendment gatherings to take place related to important issues. The Portland Police Bureau is here to protect the First Amendment gatherings by helping keep the peace for all involved. There are multiple anticipated events this afternoon and evening in Downtown Portland. Publicly available information indicates gatherings are taking place at Lownsdale Square Park, Salmon Street Springs in Tom McCall Waterfront Park, and possibly Pioneer Courthouse Square. This information is preliminary and could change. It is unknown if these events will result in traffic disruptions, but spontaneous marches have happened in the past. Drivers and other road users are asked to be patient should disruptions occur. The City of Portland and Police Bureau are firmly and consistently supportive of people exercising their free speech and assembly rights. However, at times, people intent on committing property damage and other crimes have attached themselves to crowds of otherwise peaceful community members. The Portland Police Bureau will monitor these events. Individuals who engage in violent activity or property destruction will be investigated and are subject to arrest and prosecution. That does not always happen in the moment. We will continue…
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