The Smile

Applaud Judge Who Stood Up for Portland Protesters’ Rights

Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of democracy — and one federal judge just defended it.

In Portland, demonstrators gathered outside an ICE facility to protest Trump’s immigration policies. Instead of respecting their First Amendment rights, federal agents used aggressive crowd-control tactics like tear gas and pepper spray.

Now a federal judge has stepped in, extending limits on federal agents’ use of chemical weapons against protesters near the Portland ICE building. The ruling sends a clear message: the government cannot treat peaceful demonstrators like enemies simply for speaking out.

At a time when protest rights are under attack across the country, this decision is a powerful defense of civil liberties.

Public support matters. When judges stand up for constitutional rights, they often face political backlash. Showing support helps reinforce that defending the First Amendment is not controversial — it’s essential.

Add your name to thank the judge for protecting the rights of Portland protesters and defending the Constitution.
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