Once again, Portland, Oregon, protesters are finding creative ways to confront ICE, but this time, instead of tense standoffs, they brought the party to the picket line. A recent video shared online shows demonstrators dancing outside the federal facility, with two participants in full animal costumes while others groove in plain clothes.
Redditors had a field day with the footage. “Dispatch: THEY’RE DOING THE CHA CHA SLIDE,” joked one, capturing the absurdity of the scene. Another user added, “That raccoon could be rabid, those goddamned terrorists are engaging in biological warfare!”
The video, only 17 seconds long, is a stark contrast to previous footage of Portland protests, which often featured confrontations with law enforcement and even pepper-spraying incidents. One Redditor remarked that “Frightening. No rhythm in sight,” poking fun at the protestors’ dance skills while acknowledging the surreal mix of levity and activism.
Despite the playful tone, the protest still carries the serious message of challenging ICE operations. The costumed dancers, reminiscent of the “Fortnite-style” protest antics seen in earlier Portland demonstrations, highlight the city’s unique blend of humor and resistance in activism.
Other commenters offered lighthearted observations, from imagining a South Park episode based on the event to joking about a full-blown birthday party erupting if the dancers got near sheet cakes. The combination of whimsy and political purpose appears to be the new signature of Portland’s anti-ICE activism.
While ICE agents watched with little visible reaction, online audiences celebrated the display as a blend of protest, performance art, and outright fun.
“Pregame lobby in Fortnite be like,” one user joked, which I think sums up the scene perfectly.
