Spokane Immigration Protest: 30+ Arrested After Deportation of Asylum Seekers
Following the detention of two asylum seekers, a protest outside a Spokane ICE facility escalated, resulting in a city-wide curfew and 30 arrests. The demonstration, initially focused on preventing the removal of the detainees, involved hundreds of protestors and a substantial police response, including the use of smoke grenades and pepper balls. A subsequent protest at Riverfront Park further intensified the situation, leading to additional arrests and injuries. The events sparked debate regarding the balance between freedom of speech and maintaining public order, with city officials emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest while condemning unlawful actions.