Statement From Organizers
Friends,
As we witness the disturbing events unfolding in Los Angeles, organizers with the Walla Walla Activism Network want to reaffirm our deep commitment to nonviolent protest. We believe in the power of peaceful resistance to create change—and we are dedicated to upholding that principle in all of our actions.
At the same time, we recognize the fear and hesitation some may be feeling ahead of next Saturday’s event. These feelings are valid. While no public gathering can ever be entirely risk-free, we want to remind you of the proactive safety measures we have taken—and will continue to take—to protect all participants.
Trained safety marshals will be present throughout the event.
Designated de-escalators will be on hand to help manage any tensions.
Our safety protocols were developed in coordination with input from experienced community members and local leaders to ensure we’re prepared for a range of situations.
Law enforcement has repeatedly expressed to organizers that protecting our First Amendment rights is their duty, and both the Walla Walla Police Department and the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office are aware of our Safety Plan.
On the day of the march, participants will receive reminders about safety protocols, including our guidance that no one should engage with counter-protesters, should any be present.
We’ve coordinated with immigrant rights leaders to ensure we have a plan in case of any ICE presence. (To be clear, we have NO indication ICE will be present, but are planning in response to recent nearby activity in the Tri-Cities area.)
Everyone, especially those who may be impacted by immigration enforcement, is encouraged to bring a fully charged cell phone with passcode-only access (no facial ID or fingerprint- this is important! Scroll down for more information) for documentation purposes. If you are not sure how to do this, please contact us and we will help.
If you are someone who may be impacted by immigration enforcement, we encourage you to create a family or safety plan. BMAC and LCYC can assist with this preparation.
Ultimately, only you can decide what feels safe for you. We urge everyone, especially those who may face increased risk, to take time to evaluate that decision and make a plan that protects themselves and their loved ones.
We also want to say this: It is okay to be scared. But fear should not silence us. Courage is not the absence of fear—it is action in the face of it. This is a defining moment in our history. We must stand together, loudly and proudly, to show that we do not consent to the erosion of our freedoms.
As we gather this Saturday, we do so with love, conviction, and deep respect for the generations before us who have fought for justice. In the United States, we have no kings. The power lies with us—the people—and it is both our right and our responsibility to use it.
We hope you’ll stand with us.
In solidarity,
The WWAN Organizers
🖌️ Poster and Sign Making Sessions:
June 10th at 2PM
June 12th at 4PM
📍 Walla Walla Democrats Office — 38 E Main St #105
All supplies provided!
Community Spotlight
✅ Spokane Indivisible: THEY DID IT!
Last week, Spokane Indivisible launched a Baumgartner Billboard Campaign—and fully funded it in just five days!
🗓️ Billboard goes live: June 23, 2025
📍 Location: Corner of 2nd & Washington Street in Spokane
🌈Walla Walla Pride
This last weekend, Walla Walla 5th Annual Pride Festival went on without a hitch thanks to the many talented, passionate, and amazing organizers and volunteers. Thank you Walla Walla Pride Team!
Mutual Aid
At our Community Picnic in April, we met the sweetest couple, M. and P., and their darling baby. They came seeking help to cover tuition for M’s CNA program at WWCC. WWAN has worked diligently, partnering with the Community College and with the DSA’s Mutual Aid group, to ensure this family has the resources they need to live the life they dream of in our community.
We are grateful to all who have been a part of supporting them thus far. Caring for our community is one of the most powerful ways we can feed democracy. We continue to work with partners to cross the finish line with M’s tuition and can’t wait to see her finish her program in just a couple of weeks!
🔐Why Should I Turn Off Face ID and Fingerprint Unlock?
Courts have generally ruled that biometric data—like your fingerprint or face—is not protected by the Fifth Amendment. That means police can legally force you to unlock your phone using your fingerprint or face.
But your passcode or password is different. Entering a passcode is considered a testimonial act—it shows knowledge in your mind—so you can’t be legally forced to give it up.
In short:
✅ Passcodes, patterns, and passwords are protected.
❌ Face ID and fingerprint unlock are not protected.
To stay safer during actions or in risky situations, turn off biometric unlock features and use a strong passcode instead.
Local Actions and Events
WEEKLY PROTEST: ANTI-AUTHORITARIAN FOCUS
🗓️ Tuesday, June 10 at 6PM | Corner of 2nd & Rose, across from the Marcus Whitman Hotel
We’ll gather with bold signs and a shared message: This is our community, and we say NO to authoritarianism.
POWER OF COMMUNITY
📍 Marcus Whitman Hotel | Wednesday, June 18 | 6–9PM
You are invited to join Walla Walla Dems in celebrating the Power of Community. The event will include delicious appetizers, a no-host bar, and a silent auction.
Keynote: Charles (Chuck) Sams III - the 19th National Park Service director and first Tribal citizen to serve as the agency’s director
👉 Today is the final day to register!
ONLINE TRAININGS & CALLS
📣 Safety Marshal Training
Wednesday, June 11 | 430PM | Zoom
The organizers of No Kings will equip you with essential skills for a smooth and secure mobilization, covering practical tips on crowd management, incident response, and key safety protocols.
🔗 Sign up here
Know Your Rights Training - ACLU
Tuesday, June 10 | 4PM | Zoom
This training will prepare you to show up safely and confidently at a nonviolent action—whether you're marching or supporting from the sidelines.
👉 Register now
Disappeared in America: Mass Organizing Call
Monday, June 9 | 5PM | Zoom
Learn how Trump and his allies are using sheriffs to carry out disappearances and repression—and how we can fight back locally.
👉 Register now
In Solidarity,
Walla Walla Activism Network