Extremist groups like the Proud Boys, a far-right neo-fascist organization that is openly chauvinistic, racist and xenophobic, and Antifa, an anti-fascist group were present for today's rallies.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler tweeted a warning to all of the day’s protesters telling them to "peacefully exercise their First Amendments Rights."
But violent skirmishes broke out around the city anyway as people attacked each other with pepper spray, paintball guns, bats, shields and projectiles. Streets were blocked, and police monitored the situation near the Multnomah County Justice Center.
One protester filming the day's events, caught a woman on camera who was punched to the ground by a member of the Proud Boys group.