Protests against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Spokane, Washington, have escalated into a state of emergency after demonstrators ignored the mayor’s curfew. Police deployed tear gas and made arrests for failing to disperse. The unrest followed a call to action from former City Councilman Ben Stuckart, who had become the legal guardian of a Venezuelan man seeking asylum and was detained by ICE. Mayor Lisa Brown declared a state of emergency as the protests persisted through the night, with police and sheriff’s officers working to maintain order.
Spokane County Commissioner Josh Kerns condemned the unrest, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest while upholding public safety. He stated, ‘The unrest we have seen in the City of Spokane is unacceptable. I stand with the dedicated men and women of law enforcement who put themselves in harm’s way to protect lives, businesses and public safety.’ Kerns also reiterated his support for the First Amendment rights of free speech and protest, but stressed that such rights must be exercised lawfully. ‘We must uphold both our freedoms and our responsibility to exercise them lawfully,’ he added.
Mayor Brown addressed the situation, reaffirming the city’s commitment to maintaining public safety. ‘The City of Spokane respects and upholds everyone’s First Amendment rights and right to be on public property,’ she said. ‘The city continues to uphold the Keep Washington Working Act. The Spokane Police Department will address violations of Spokane Municipal Code.’ Brown urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and expressed solidarity with families facing separation due to immigration policies. ‘Our unity is stronger than any attempt to divide us,’ she concluded.
Several protesters have been taken into custody on ‘failure to disperse’ charges, and local law enforcement has used tear gas to control the crowds. The situation has drawn national attention, with similar protests and arrests reported in Los Angeles, where Trump has sent in the National Guard to quell violence. The incident underscores the ongoing national debate over immigration policy, the treatment of asylum seekers, and the balance between civil rights and public order.