CRESWELL – It appears a rally scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 27, at City Hall in support of Black Lives Matter has been at least postponed, if not canceled, according to social media posts and LCSO Sgt. Scott Denham.
According to Denham, organizers said sensitivity regarding the effects of the wildfires on people and several acts of targeted harassment were behind the decision to call it off.
“They had put too much personal info out (about themselves) and started getting calls, texts and drive-bys on their houses. They decided it was not worth it.”
The city council’s discussion on an equity statement drew mixed community reaction that included comments on the potential rally and counter-protest.
Creswell leaders also posted online an explanation of the permit process. It stated there is no permit necessary for gathering peacefully on sidewalks; a permit is required when seeking roadway blockage, or a large gathering in a park.
Denham said his office will continue to monitor the situation. A similar rally is scheduled in Veneta on Monday, Sept. 21, and might be a good gauge for Creswell, he said.
