Scores of demonstrators rallying in solidarity with Palestinians are anticipated to protest outdoors a Westwood fundraiser for President Biden on Friday night, drawing an ominous warning from the Los Angeles Police Division that “violence of any variety won’t be tolerated.”
The division stated in a submit on social media platform X that it was “conscious of potential first modification exercise” and was working with the Secret Service to deploy further officers and different sources to “guarantee the best degree of public security.”
“The Los Angeles Police Division is asking that every one people and teams concerned in protest or counter-protest actions not enable people who specific the intent to commit violence or property [damage] to compromise the in any other case lawful demonstration,” the submit stated.
A spokesperson for the LAPD stated officers had “no information of any advance threats of violence or vandalism” on the protests.
It’s unclear what number of protesters are anticipated at Holmby Park, close to the Holmby Hills dwelling the place Biden and First Woman Jill Biden will attend the fundraiser, however pro-Palestinian teams together with the Palestinian Youth Motion posted on social media encouraging supporters to “depart work early” and to “get able to shut it down for Palestine,” drawing hundreds of likes and interactions.
One submit by the youth group included fake blood and performed on Biden’s “Darkish Brandon” meme, that includes glowing pink eyes and referring to the president as “Genocide Joe.”
The group urged followers to “present up and maintain a picket line with us for so long as it takes!” Protesters are anticipated to collect beginning at 3:30 p.m.
Earlier peaceable pro-Palestinian protests have taken place in Pershing Sq., the place tens of hundreds gathered on Oct. 21, in addition to on the Israeli consulate on Nov. 4 and in Hollywood on Nov. 15. A smaller-scale protest organized by progressive Jewish activists occurred outdoors Vice President Kamala Harris’ Brentwood dwelling in October.
The protests have cascaded right into a nationwide motion by demonstrators calling for a cease-fire within the Gaza Strip and for america to finish monetary and army support to Israel.
After Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing roughly 1,200 folks and kidnapping greater than 240, Israel responded with a bombing offensive and eventual floor warfare in Gaza believed to be answerable for no less than 17,000 Palestinian deaths.
Friday night time’s fundraiser is hosted by Hollywood administrators Steven Spielberg and Rob Reiner, producers Shonda Rhimes and Peter Chernin, former studio chief Jim Gianopulos and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Rick Caruso. Mayor Karen Bass, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Rep. Nancy Pelosi are additionally anticipated to attend.
The occasion marks the primary such fundraising gala for the reason that finish of two leisure trade strikes. Particular person donations might soar to shut to $1 million.
Biden’s go to runs from Friday to Sunday, and along with his arrival and departure from LAX, site visitors is anticipated to be affected.
Caltrans spokesperson Marc Bischoff stated that ramp closures won’t embrace an “advance announcement to the general public” for safety causes, however involved motorists can verify for closures with Caltrans.
Occasions workers writers Seema Mehta and Anthony De Leon contributed to this report.