A lot is happening Saturday: Flag Day, President Donald Trump’s birthday, a massive military parade in Washington D.C. to celebrate the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday, and nationwide protests over the president and his administration’s policies are all taking place.
“No Kings” demonstrations are happening across the country on Saturday, including in the Los Angeles area. The largest demonstration is expected to occur in downtown L.A., which has been severely affected by violent protests over federal immigration raids that occurred last week. There are also at least a dozen other demonstrations planned across SoCal.
In the wake of the civil unrest following the ICE raids – which have also sparked political discourse between L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Trump – Los Angeles officials are taking no risks when it comes to Saturday’s planned demonstrations across the city, including downtown, the Westside and the San Fernando Valley.
Bass was joined by Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell on Saturday morning at a press conference which outlined officials’ preparedness measures. Firstly, however, she issued a plea for peaceful demonstration.
“As people march today, my call is please, please do not give the administration an excuse to intervene,” Bass said. “Let’s make sure we show the world the best of Los Angeles and our country. Let’s stand in contrast to the provocation, escalation and violence.”
“I want to thank those who protest peacefully…those who commit violence are not doing so on behalf of immigrants, and make no mistake, we have zero tolerance for anyone who damages property or puts officers or people at risk,” she continued. “We will not allow violence, vandalism, or other dangerous behavior, so don’t even try it.”
She elaborated that “the eyes of the world are on Los Angeles” and that Angelenos “should not be defined by the actions of Washington.”
“Let’s show the world what Los Angeles, California and our nation is about: freedom, the First Amendment, peace and unity,” she concluded.
LAPD Chief McDonnell stated that his department’s top priority is public safety in a peaceful manner, but that will not happen without the cooperation of Angelenos. He also reiterated Mayor Bass’ message to anyone who intends to be violent.
“We are closely monitoring developments and have deployed our resources and personnel strategically to protect public safety while safeguarding every individual’s Constitutional right to protest peacefully,” Chief McDonnell said. “Let me be very, very clear: if you’re here in Los Angeles today to make your voice heard through peaceful demonstrations, we are here to protect you. But if you come here with the intent to commit crime, damage property or harm others – including our officers – you will be arrested.”
“We will not allow violence or lawlessness to endanger lives in the City of Los Angeles,” he added. “Violence and destruction don’t make your voice louder…they distract from your cause. Help us ensure that the focus stays on the message and not mayhem.”
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