Protesters in Portland showcased the city’s quirky and irreverent spirit on Sunday by pedaling through streets wearing little to nothing in an “emergency” edition of the annual World Naked Bike Ride, aimed at opposing the Trump administration.
In recent days, crowds have gathered outside the city’s immigration facility, dressing in inflatable frog, unicorn, axolotl, and banana costumes as they confronted federal law enforcement, who have frequently used tear gas and pepper balls.
While the bike ride usually occurs in summer, organizers said this weekend’s impromptu nude ride was necessary to protest President Donald Trump’s efforts to mobilize the National Guard to suppress demonstrations.
Rider Janene King described the ride as a “quintessentially Portland way to protest.” The 51-year-old wore only wool socks, a wig, and a hat, sipping hot tea as she braved mid-50s (12 Celsius) temperatures and steady rain.
“We definitely do not want troops coming into our city,” King said.
Participants cycled toward the city’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building, where authorities instructed protesters to remain on sidewalks or face possible arrest. The city is awaiting an appeals court ruling on whether Trump can deploy federalized troops, following a temporary hold issued by a federal judge on Oct. 5.
“Joy is a form of protest. Being together with mutual respect and kindness is a form of protest,” the ride’s organizers said on Instagram. “It’s your choice how much or little you wear.”
Fewer participants went fully nude than usual, likely due to the cool, wet weather, though some rode wearing only helmets.
Since 2004, Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride has annually filled the streets, often holding up traffic as riders cycle with music playing from speakers. In some years, the event has attracted roughly 10,000 participants, according to Portland World Naked Bike Ride.
(With AP Inputs)
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