HOUSTON – Despite a fear of potential escalations, like we’ve seen in Los Angeles, Houston Mayor John Whitmire noted how Saturday’s “No Kings” protests occurred exactly as he anticipated, with a “powerful and peaceful demonstration.”
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More than 10,000 residents gathered outside Houston City Hall Saturday morning, making up of volunteer-led protest nationwide as a counter-program to a military parade being held in Washington, D.C., for President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
Demonstrators said their goal was to stand up for civil liberties and push back against what they see as undemocratic policies.
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During Saturday’s protest, Mayor Whitmire and Chief J. Noe Diaz with the Houston Police Department met with some of the protesters at City Hall to hear their concerns.
Hours later, the City of Houston shared a post saying in part, “We witnessed our city at its best.”
“More than 10,000 people came together in a powerful and peaceful demonstration. Your commitment to exercising your First Amendment rights with respect, dignity, and unity reflects the very best of our city,” the post read. “No arrests. No serious injuries. Just one strong, united message — delivered peacefully.“
This comes after scores of reports about destruction and clashing between demonstrators and law enforcement in Los Angeles, on the heels of President Trump deploying National Guard troops and Marine soldiers.
While organizers repeatedly called for peaceful protests, law enforcement agencies across the region issued reminders about respecting First Amendment rights while warning against property damage and violence.
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Governor Greg Abbott even activated more than 5,000 Texas National Guard soldiers, ready to respond if needed.
Despite that, Mayor Whitmire expressed confidence in Houston’s demonstrators, even scoffing at a Republican lawmaker who issued a warning about a potentially violent riot.