OAKLAND—On Saturday, July 25, protests occurred in downtown Oakland. The Oakland Police Department estimated around 700 people participated.
Protests began at 7:30 p.m. at Oscar Grant Plaza. It was organized by Wall of Moms Bay Area, Refuse Fascism Bay Area, and others. The intent was plastered as a “Bay Area March against the federal occupation of Portland and all state repression.” Reminders such as “wear a mask” and “have each other’s back, stay safe” was shared.
“Some broke from the larger group and smashed windows, spray-painted graffiti and pointed lasers at officers,” said Oakland Police Department Spokesperson, Officer Johanna Watson to the Associated Press. Authorities reported “agitators” used fireworks and projectiles against officers before the assembly was declared unlawful and the crowd was asked to disperse.
The Alameda County Superior Courthouse was vandalized with fire, spray painting, and broken glass. The Alameda County Sheriff’s Department posted on social media a “damage assessment from Saturday’s vandalism about $200,000.”
Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf issued the following statement:
“Vandalizing our downtown gives Donald Trump the images he wants and the justification he seeks to send federal troops into American cities. We can’t be fooled and play into his twisted campaign strategy. We celebrate passionate protest but Oaklanders need to know that when they attend protests after dark they may be providing cover for agitators who are more intent on stoking civil unrest than advancing racial justice.”
County work crews began cleanup work on Sunday.
