A private liberal arts college in Portland is set to host an event that has raised eyebrows and sparked controversy. Lewis & Clark College will hold the 5th Annual Transformative Action and Abolition Symposium, aptly named “Bad Trouble,” from April 13 to April 15. The organization behind this event, the student-run Prison Abolition Club, has drawn criticism for its alignment with Antifa, a group that some classify as a terrorist organization within the United States.
This symposium focuses on themes of violent protest, strategies for effectively evading law enforcement, and methods for disrupting arrests. Attendees will grapple with questions like, “What place does violent direct action have in social justice organizing?” and “How can we critically evaluate our direct action decisions?” These inquiries suggest a path that many regard as dangerous and radical.
Scheduled sessions include “Anarchist Communique Readings,” where participants will delve into Antifa and anarchist literature that promotes acts of violence. Another session, titled “Grab Your Comrades Back Training,” instructs attendees on tactics to “de-arrest” individuals during police detentions. Additionally, a panel on queer activism will explore themes of abolitionist organizing, although specific details about methodologies are not typically associated with peaceful discourse.
The imagery associated with the event paints a stark picture. The promotional flyer features a burning police vehicle and tools like bolt cutters, suggesting an embrace of chaos rather than constructive dialogue. Interestingly, the event also calls for attendees to wear masks, further hinting at a preference for anonymity in activities that many citizens might view as troubling.
Journalist Andy Ngo first brought the symposium to light, labeling it “Antifa terrorism and radicalization training.” His reports highlight a significant concern: even though Lewis & Clark is a private institution, it accepts federal funding through programs that aid students. This connection raises questions about accountability, especially when taxpayers’ dollars are involved in events that promote violent ideologies.
While Lewis & Clark has not publicly responded to inquiries about the event, the college’s Prison Abolition Club explicitly aims for the abolition of prisons, policing, and surveillance, which inherently challenges the foundations of law and order. This ongoing commitment to radical change continues Portland’s reputation as a hotbed for Antifa activities, particularly evident during the riots of 2020 and subsequent protests through 2025, where violence and property damage were prevalent.
Portland has long stood at the forefront of leftist activism, where the line between protest and insurrection has become increasingly blurred. The ongoing events serve as a reminder of the risks involved when institutions cater to radical ideologies under the guise of academic freedom and social justice. Critics argue that the symposium not only promotes methods of violence and confrontation but could also lead to further division within society as passions boil over.
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