Oakland prepares for throngs of Trump protesters

Byby Cornell Barnard KGO logo
Friday, January 20, 2017
Oakland prepares for throngs of Trump protesters
The City of Oakland says it's prepared for large demonstrations in the wake of Donald Trump's inauguration, but many businesses aren't taking chances.

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- The City of Oakland says it's prepared for large demonstrations in the wake of Donald Trump's inauguration, but many businesses aren't taking chances.

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A group of protestors marched to Oakland police headquarters. Many in the crowd are survivors of violence, who fear the upcoming Trump administration. Some identify Trump with that violence. "I look at Trump coming into office. I see the face of many who hit me when I was 18," said Jadelynn Sahl.

Police officers surrounded headquarters, but the demonstration was peaceful. Earlier, another march led to Oakland City Hall. Members of the interfaith community worry many will be left without healthcare if Trump repeals the affordable care act.

"The repeal of ACA will affect our community greatly," said Damita Davis-Howard of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. "Access to healthcare is something my community has been fighting for for decades."

Mayor Libby Schaaf says Oakland will protect those who are facing deportation. "We are a sanctuary city. We will protect the undocumented."

Police are ready for giant post-inaugural demonstrations planned for Friday and Saturday. All available officers are on duty. Vandalism will not be tolerated.

"We want to discourage criminal behavior and encourage safe space for freedom of speech," said Oakland Police spokesperson Johanna Watson.

Many Oakland businesses boarded up windows in case things get out of hand, including a Kaiser Hospital facility on Broadway. "This is where you work," said employee Larry Kushi. "Yes it just causes headaches for everybody."

RELATED: Oakland businesses prepare for Trump protests

With the new administration comes a new chapter in freedom of speech, for everyone.