Portland City Councilor Loretta Smith is condemning violence and calling for stronger security protocols after a chaotic demonstration forced elected officials to evacuate council chambers and continue last Wednesday night’s meeting virtually.
Smith said the disruption created an unsafe environment and undermined the democratic process, preventing many residents from delivering scheduled testimony.
“To be clear, I denounce violence. I want to emphasize that violence is not the first and only solution to solving matters. And improving our security protocols is the best first action rather than an open carry ordinance.”
According to the Portland Police Bureau, officers were alerted earlier in the day about a planned demonstration at Portland City Hall. At 6:28 p.m., security reported that an individual crossed the dais to physically confront council members. Police said roughly 40 people were inside council chambers, with additional demonstrators blocking the lobby entrance.
Authorities said participants were notified they were trespassing and needed to leave but refused. Council members and staff were evacuated safely before officers from multiple precincts responded to clear the building.
Four individuals who refused to leave were arrested on charges including criminal trespass and disorderly conduct.
The police response required drawing officers from several precincts, temporarily reducing staffing elsewhere in the city.
“Wednesday night’s events required a significant, coordinated response from across the Portland Police Bureau,” Chief Bob Day said. “When resources are concentrated in one location, there is a real impact on the rest of the city.”
Day added that while the bureau respects the community’s right to peaceful protest, demonstrations must remain lawful and safe.
Smith said her perspective on safety is shaped by lived experience. As a Black woman in public office, she carries what she described as the weight of history and has spoken about educating her son on the realities of driving while Black. She also referenced recent incidents involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement, saying she has witnessed what she described as tragic abuses of power that harmed individuals participating in peaceful protests.
“Just as protesters desire to feel safe in their communities, I, too, have a right to feel safe in my workplace and to go home at the end of the day,” said Councilor Smith.
Smith said she plans to work with Mayor Wilson, the Council President, the City Administrator, and security experts to review the events and strengthen safety protocols. Proposed improvements include clearer procedures for handling disturbances, enhanced de-escalation strategies, and stronger protections for staff and attendees.
Smith said Portland residents deserve a City Hall where people can attend meetings, speak freely, and participate in civic life without threats or fear.
