Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, has directed the state’s National Guard to descend upon San Antonio in preparation for expected immigration protests this week.
Reports indicate that demonstrations in Los Angeles, California, initially arising in response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, have prompted President Donald Trump to call up National Guard troops and Marines. These protests have now begun to ripple across the nation, with additional gatherings scheduled into the weekend.
Assistant Chief Jesse Salame of the San Antonio Police Department confirmed on Tuesday that Governor Abbott had indeed dispatched Texas National Guard members to San Antonio. It is in this city where South Texas organizations are anticipated to stage rallies on Wednesday and Saturday.
A statement was issued by Abbott’s office regarding the deployment. “The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary personnel and resources to uphold law and order across our state,” the statement read. “Texas National Guard soldiers are on standby in areas where mass demonstrations are planned in case they are needed.”
In contrast to the situation in Los Angeles, local authorities in San Antonio are collaborating with state and federal officials in an attempt to manage potential violence. Mayor Ron Nirenberg, SAPD Chief William McManus, and City Manager Erik Walsh have pledged to “support peaceful demonstrations while ensuring public safety,” according to a recent press release.
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar issued a statement cautioning peaceful demonstrators about potential “agitators.” The background to this situation is important. He advised those planning to attend the demonstrations to be respectful of the rights and property of others, warning that those seeking to create disorder may blend in among peaceful protestors.
President Trump remarked on Tuesday that without the deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles during the previous three nights, the city would be “burning to the ground.”
As these events continue to unfold, it’s important to stay informed and remember the value of peaceful demonstrations as a cornerstone of our democratic processes.