Austin, Texas is preparing for potential protests this weekend, with the National Guard on standby to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) if needed. Mayor Kirk Watson addressed the situation, emphasizing the importance of peaceful assembly while cautioning against violence and chaos.
National Guard Support Amidst Planned Demonstrations
Mayor Watson stated that the city has been informed about the National Guard's readiness to support the DPS during a planned protest on Saturday. This protest is reportedly linked to nationwide "No Kings" demonstrations coinciding with President Donald Trump's birthday and the Army's 250th anniversary.
Scheduled speakers at the rally, commencing at the Capitol at 5 p.m. and lasting until 8 p.m., include U.S. Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas), state Rep. John Bucy (D-Austin), and attorneys Pooja Sethi and Sara Spector.
Mayor Watson's Call for Peaceful Protest
Following a night of intense downtown protests resulting in 13 arrests, Mayor Watson reiterated his support for the right to protest. However, he warned that violent actions could undermine the message demonstrators are trying to convey. He acknowledged concerns within the immigrant community and asserted his commitment to mitigating fear and chaos.
"This is a very real situation impacting the lives of real people," Watson said. "I recognize the value and the humanity of our immigrant community. And much of what we're seeing in Washington is meant to create fear. It's meant to create chaos. It's meant to get attention, even if that's negative attention."
Watson also cautioned against actions that could be perceived as "manufactured violence" or "manufactured chaos," emphasizing that violence and destruction ultimately harm everyone.
Balancing Protest Rights and Public Safety
The situation in Austin highlights the delicate balance between the right to peaceful protest and the need to maintain public safety. As the city prepares for potential demonstrations, the focus remains on ensuring that voices are heard while preventing violence and disruption.