ACLU of Oklahoma advises protesters of their rights ahead of Saturday’s demonstrations

The American Civil Liberties Union is reminding protesters of their rights ahead of Saturday’s demonstrations, a spokesperson told News 9 on Tuesday. 

Hundreds of Oklahomans are expected to protest in the “No Kings OKC: March & Rally,” which will be held on Saturday as part of a national movement. 

“We know that organizations and individuals across the country have been planning for the June 14th 'No Kings Rally' for a long time,” said Tamya Cox-Touré, Executive Director of ACLU Oklahoma. 

Cox-Touré explained that “The rally this Saturday is about so many different issues around the overreach and the abuse of the Trump administration.” 

She said she stands behind anyone using their First Amendment right to protest. 

“People have a right to dissent, be upset, and share those feelings-- and that is lawful. That should be allowed without any interference by law enforcement,” Cox-Touré shared. 

As protesters and police battle it out in cities like Los Angeles, the ACLU of Oklahoma said people should feel confident in vocalizing and exploring those feelings. 

"Protests have been a part of Oklahoma City history, starting from the sit-ins with Clara Luper all the way to 2020, one of our largest demonstrations around the George Floyd protest. So, Oklahomans know how to protest," she stated. 

Cox-Touré said if law enforcement steps in or tries to interfere with anyone’s First Amendment right, take out a cellphone camera. 

"The best thing that folks can do is record it,” she shared. 

She added that it’s important to have safety plans and know who to contact if arrested. 

Oklahoma City Police Department and Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office declined to speak about safety measures heading into Saturday’s protest. 

Oklahoma Highway Patrol told News 9 it is on standby for the weekend.