Conspirituality Portland Has (Not) Fallen (For It)
Oct 20, 2025
Derek shares his experience at the No Kings rally in Portland, highlighting a man with a mismatched Trump flag and Captain America shield. He observes a lone counterprotester, juxtaposing their confrontational behaviors. The rally's lively atmosphere contrasts with past protests, boasting engaging speakers and music celebrating Portland pride. As he navigates online discussions regarding the protest, Derek teases a deeper inquiry into Nazism's relevance to the conversation, making for a thought-provoking listen.
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Lonely Agitator With Mixed Symbols
- Derek Barris describes a young man waving a modified Trump flag while carrying a Captain America shield, creating ironic symbolism.
- The man and an older woman seemed like attention-seekers rather than paid agitators during the Portland No Kings rally.
Joyful, Family-Focused Rally Atmosphere
- Derek paints the rally as largely joyous with many families, inflatable costumes, and people taking photos together.
- He notes speakers had good messages and music showcased Portland's strengths, even if the host joked about city hype.
Protest Role Invites Broader Questions
- Derek wants to examine online chatter about what protests like No Kings function as in society beyond Portland.
- He frames two questions to explore the protest's role and a comment about Nazism, signaling broader analysis.