On Tuesday, 18 people were arrested during protests near downtown Denver, which were sparked by ongoing immigration enforcement across the country. The protests began peacefully at the Colorado State Capitol but escalated as demonstrators attempted to walk onto Interstate 25, prompting the arrests.
The Protest’s Purpose and Escalation
Organizers of the protest spoke out against the U.S. immigration raids and showed support for similar protests in Los Angeles. The protest started calmly, but things quickly escalated as demonstrators marched through downtown Denver, temporarily blocking traffic. As the situation became tense, clashes occurred between police and protesters.
At one point, video footage from a protester named ABizzy showed Denver police launching pepper balls into the crowd. “There’s always the ones that want to be extreme, but for the most part, I think people’s hearts are here in peace,” said ABizzy, reflecting on the situation.
Law Enforcement’s Response
Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas explained that the smoke released during the protest was harmless, with no irritants. He emphasized that police officers issued several warnings before taking further action. Police made arrests on charges of assault and disobeying lawful orders. In some cases, demonstrators threw rocks at officers and even slashed a tire.
Unlike protests in 2020, the police department stated that they are now more focused on de-escalation and using less aggressive methods. “We’re not indiscriminately using tear gas. Some tools we have just taken offline because they’re not safe in those environments,” Chief Thomas said.
The department has also become more tolerant of unplanned or unpermitted demonstrations, as they aim to rebuild trust with the community.
Protesters Stand in Solidarity with Los Angeles
The goal of the protest, according to community organizer Tim Hernández, was to stand in solidarity with the people of Los Angeles and reject the deployment of military law enforcement against immigrant communities.
“I think the point of any protest is to be heard,” Hernández said, explaining that when people feel their voices aren’t being heard by policymakers, they may resort to protest.
Despite the tensions, Chief Thomas expressed understanding for people’s desire to exercise their First Amendment rights. “We don’t think that what is going on in this country is right, and so we encourage people to protest — and we will do all that we can to make sure it is safe,” Thomas said.
A Statement from the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition
Raquel Lane-Arellano, communications manager for the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, shared the following statement: “We organized this emergency protest to stand in solidarity with the people of Los Angeles and to reject the Trump administration’s violent deployment of military and law enforcement against immigrant communities. This is about more than one city — it’s about defending our families, our freedoms, and our future.”
Lane-Arellano further emphasized that the protest was meant to oppose the fear and violence against immigrants fueled by false narratives. “When those in power spread lies about immigrants to justify fear and violence, we must rise together to protect the dignity and safety of all people.”
The protest in Denver was not the end. On Saturday, June 14, the “No Kings Rally” will be part of a nationwide protest against President Donald Trump and his administration. Smaller protests are also planned across Colorado. While law enforcement is preparing for potential disruptions, they are hoping for peaceful demonstrations.