Portland Protesters Stage Naked Bike Ride to Oppose Federal Troops

Published: October 13, 2025, 22:10 EDT

Protesters Use Creativity and Humor to Oppose Federal Troop Plans

Portland’s streets turned into a blend of protest and performance art on Sunday as dozens of naked cyclists rode through the rain, voicing opposition to federal troop deployment. The impromptu event, dubbed an “emergency edition” of the World Naked Bike Ride, underscored the city’s long-standing mix of political activism and eccentric self-expression.

A Quirky Tradition Meets Political Defiance

The World Naked Bike Ride is a Portland tradition dating back to 2004, typically held in summer as a statement promoting body positivity, environmental awareness, and freedom of expression. This year’s unscheduled ride, however, took on a distinctly political tone.

According to organizers, the “emergency” edition was held in protest of the Trump administration’s effort to deploy National Guard troops amid ongoing demonstrations outside the city’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. Despite steady rain and temperatures around 12°C (mid-50s°F), riders gathered to pedal through downtown Portland, calling the protest “quintessentially Portland.”

Riders Blend Defiance With Humor

Participant Janene King, 51, captured the spirit of the event, saying, “We definitely do not want troops coming into our city.” Clad only in wool socks, a hat, and a wig, she sipped tea as she prepared to ride.

The cyclists made their way through key streets before stopping near the ICE facility, where authorities warned them to remain on sidewalks or risk arrest. Many protesters, combining humor with resistance, donned whimsical costumes—including inflatable frogs, bananas, and unicorns—while others chose to bare it all despite the chilly weather.

“Joy Is a Form of Protest,” Organizers Say

In a statement on Instagram, organizers emphasized that the ride was meant to be a joyful yet defiant act of solidarity.

“Joy is a form of protest. Being together with mutual respect and kindness is a form of protest,” the post read. “It’s your choice how much or little you wear.”

While fewer participants were completely nude than in past years, the turnout demonstrated the city’s continued commitment to expressive, nonviolent dissent.

Legal and Political Context

The event occurred as Portland awaited a ruling from an appeals court on whether former President Donald Trump could proceed with plans to federalize troops in the city. A federal judge had earlier issued a temporary hold on the deployment order on October 5.

Crowds have continued to gather outside the ICE facility for days, with tensions occasionally flaring between demonstrators and law enforcement using pepper balls and tear gas.

A City Defined by Expression and Resistance

Known for its countercultural character, Portland has long embraced creative forms of protest. Over the years, the World Naked Bike Ride has drawn crowds of up to 10,000 participants, often halting traffic as cyclists play music and cheer through city streets.

For many residents, the event represents more than spectacle—it’s a symbol of the city’s resilience and its refusal to conform. “It’s about joy, expression, and standing up for what we believe in,” one participant said.