Protests Erupt in Spokane, Mayor Declares State of Emergency

SPOKANE, Wash. – Former City Councilman Ben Stuckart was detained during a protest outside the ICE office on Wednesday as he objected to the detainment of a young Venezuelan man seeking asylum. Stuckart organized the protest to prevent agents from transporting the man to the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma.

Protesters gathered outside the facility on West Cataldo Avenue, blocking access to a bus that was to take the young man, who turned 21 that day, to immigration detention. Stuckart had recently taken legal guardianship of the man and claimed he was detained during a scheduled check-in.

The protests began earlier in the afternoon, with other activists joining Stuckart in a rally that quickly drew the attention of law enforcement. As tensions escalated, Spokane Police and SWAT units responded, warning protesters that arrests would be made if they interfered with federal operations.

“The Latino community needs the rest of our community now,” Stuckart wrote on social media, urging for immediate action. Protesters began chanting “let them go” as some attempted to gain access to the bus, resulting in confrontations with law enforcement.

Amid the chaos, Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown issued a statement affirming the city’s respect for First Amendment rights while emphasizing the need for peace. “My heart goes out to families being separated,” she said. “Our unity is stronger than any attempt to divide us.”

By evening, Mayor Brown declared a state of emergency following a violent escalation of the protests. A curfew was set to start at 9:30 p.m. and last until 5 a.m. the next morning, applying to the downtown Spokane area.

Protesters included other prominent local leaders and activists who expressed solidarity with Stuckart’s cause. Some noted that many in the community felt compelled to act against federal immigration policy, which they view as unjust.

Demonstrations also took place at Riverfront Park, where protesters from Stuckart’s rally joined to voice their dissent against ICE actions. As the situation unfolded, barricades were set up, and tensions rose as law enforcement enforced dispersals.

“I was here to support our friends,” said Jennyfer Mesa, a supporter at the protest. “They have been volunteering and doing everything legally. I don’t understand why they’re being detained.”

Stuckart confirmed his role as legal guardian and emphasized that both young men had been following the legal processes. “They’ve done everything right, escaping horrible situations,” he said. Despite their preparations, they were detained without a detailed explanation, which Stuckart challenged as morally wrong.

This protest marks one of the most significant local responses in Spokane against federal immigration enforcement, reflecting a broader national dissent against similar policies. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the protests continue.