A large protest is being planned in Houston that is expected to counter a military parade for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday this weekend.
The protest is part of the No Kings movement, an organization fighting against deportation and other civil rights causes.
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“They’ve defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services. The corruption has gone too far. No thrones. No crowns. No kings,” the organization’s website reads.
The main celebration, which will take place in Washington, D.C., is expected to be a spectacle with thousands of soldiers in attendance.
The protest follows violent protests over ICE immigration raids in Los Angeles.
President Trump sent authorities with the National Guard, sparking criticism from local authorities, including California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Protests have also been seen across Texas, including in Houston.
The protest is slated to start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, at Houston City Hall.
In response to the news of the protests, Congressman Wesley Hunt sent a letter to Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Houston Mayor John Whitmire.
In the letter, Rep. Hunt encouraged city law enforcement officials to prepare for the protests, expressing his concerns for the city.
“The top priority for elected officials is the protection and safety of Americans," said Rep. Hunt. "In light of the recent developments in Los Angeles, as anti-ICE riots rage on, it is our duty to ensure the safety of our cities and their civilians. On Saturday, June 14th, more than 1,800 rioters are being mobilized across the country, including in our city of Houston. These rioters are encouraging mass destruction—burning flags, destroying public property, and inciting violence against law enforcement and ICE agents. This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated."
Rep. Hunt also said that federal resources could be provided for Houston to restore order in the event that protests become violent.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott also released a statement, adding that the state is prepared to deploy troopers to combat lawlessness during protests.
“The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary personnel and resources, including Texas Department of Public Safety troopers, to uphold law and order across our state. Peaceful protests are part of the fabric of our nation, but Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we have seen in Los Angeles. Anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property will be swiftly arrested and held accountable to the full extent of the law.”
