PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) – Hundreds of cyclists participated in the Emergency World Naked Bike Ride in Portland on Sunday afternoon. In the past, the event usually advocates for climate action and safer streets. But this time, the event took the form of a protest.
“We’re here today because we strongly believe that we do not need federal troops in Portland or in Oregon at all,” said Ashley, who participated.
Cyclists met at the Convention Center just before 3 p.m. before hitting the road. The crowd briefly stopped traffic on Burnside Bridge to stage a “die-in,” before ending their route at the Portland ICE facility.
Some participants showed up in costumes, while others showed up in nothing at all. Regardless of what or how much people were wearing, participants told FOX 12 it was a welcoming and accepting atmosphere.
“It is electric, so fun, it’s so Portland. Just keeping everything weird,” said Saturn, another naked bike rider.
This year’s naked bike ride-turned protest drew in a crowd of beginners.
“I’ve never done it before but I’m very excited to be here,” Ashley said. “This is actually my first Portland protest, too.”
But seasoned naked bike riders said this year’s ride meant something extra special.
“This has more impact,” said Rodney, another participant. “We’re doing it for something bigger than just freedom of expression. We’re doing it for human rights.”
And in true Portland fashion, participants didn’t let the cold and rainy weather dampen their spirits.
“We’re all here for something that’s meaningful,” Rodney said. “I’m very happy and it made the cold and the rain so worth it.”
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