The ICE-OUT protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policies unfolded in downtown Salt Lake City Wednesday night, with more than 1,000 demonstrators marching through the city in opposition to deportation practices and immigrant detention.
The protest began at Washington Square shortly after 6 p.m. and moved east through downtown. Around 7:45 p.m., the crowd reached the intersection of 200 South and 300 East, where it stalled temporarily near a Cybertruck and was surrounded by police barricades on multiple sides.
As of 8:30 p.m., the protest remained active and ongoing and returned to the Washington Park area. There were an estimated 800 protestors still participating. The protest remained peaceful.
Protesters have been met with a sudden and visible increase in police presence. At least eight officers in tactical gear exited an unmarked white van near 400 South and State Street, the area described by attendees as the “mecca” or center of the protest.
The officers were wearing face shields, carrying batons and handcuffs and were visibly armed. Additional police vehicles arrived nearby and another SWAT officer was seen joining the group.
Despite the show of force, no direct confrontation has been reported. The officers entered the crowd and stood in place, seemingly observing the demonstration. It is estimated that over 15 officers were present, kettled by protestors.
At around 8:45 p.m., the kettled officers were seen retreating.
Chants heard throughout the evening included “No KKK, no ICE,” “Fuck Donald Trump,” “Eat the Rich” and “Immigrants are welcome here.” Signs carried by demonstrators read “Protect the hands that feed you” and “Punch Nazis,” among others.
A wide array of flags has been spotted, including Mexican, Palestinian and upside-down U.S. flags. The procession was led in part by a protester waving a 40-foot-long Mexican flag.
“I’m here to speak up for people who are unable or unwilling,” said Zach, 26, a warehouse worker from Sandy. “It’s important to support immigrants, documented or undocumented.”
Another protester, Gracie, 21, added, “I’ve never had to face anything hard, and I’m not going to use that privilege just for my own advantage. If conservatives could see how these policies are hurting families, they might understand the impact.”
Many protesters were wearing face coverings, ski goggles and gas masks, citing concerns about surveillance and possible clashes. One demonstrator, who identified as an anarchist, distributed gloves to fellow attendees.
“I’m worried that protesting itself will be criminalized,” he said. “I’m just some dumb SLC punk. Punch Nazis.”
As of this report, no arrests have been confirmed. Police continue to monitor from the perimeter, with barricades still in place around key intersections.
Protestors began to disband as of 9 p.m.
This is a developing story. Check back for live updates as the situation evolves.
The post ICE-OUT Protest Draws Hundreds in Salt Lake City first appeared on The Daily Utah Chronicle.