Costumed Protesters Bring Humor to Serious Issues in Portland

Fri Oct 24 2025 22:23:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a striking display against federal agencies, Portland protesters don inflatable costumes, highlighting their nonviolent approach to activism amidst tensions with ICE and the National Guard.

On October 2, 2023, Seth Todd became an unlikely protest icon after he was sprayed by a federal officer while wearing an inflatable frog costume outside the ICE building in Portland. This event is part of a larger movement where protesters are using whimsical costumes to combat the serious narratives surrounding protests against the Trump administration. Groups like the Portland Frog Brigade and Operation Inflation aim to engage more demonstrators by distributing costumes to create a more cheerful and peaceful atmosphere during protests.

Countering Tranquility with Absurdity

Seth Todd was sporting an inflatable frog costume when he faced a chemical spray from a federal officer during a protest outside the ICE Building in Portland, Oregon on October 2. The image quickly went viral, representing a light-hearted yet pointed critique of the federal actions in the area. 'It’s a way to combat the narrative that we are violent and are agitating,' Todd remarked, expressing pride in inspiring such a movement.

Protesters like Todd are using playful attire as a method to challenge the often grim portrayal of Portland by the Trump administration, which labeled it as 'war ravaged' and 'burning down.' Such whimsical protests aim to show a non-threatening face to activism, encouraging community involvement through humor and creativity.

Augustine Spirit of Portland

Portland's unique culture embraces a spirit of protest, evidenced by inflatable costumes becoming a staple at recent demonstrations, including the 'No Kings' rallies. Participants range from college students in Austin to those in Chicago, all adopting the inflatable trend. Natalie McCabe, a student in Texas, donned a bald eagle costume, affirming that colorful engagement adds joy to activism.

Growing Movement

New initiatives, such as the Portland Frog Brigade and Operation Inflation, are forming to distribute inflatable costumes to more participants. Operation Inflation co-founders recently provided free costumes to protesters, spreading this playful form of activism beyond Portland. 'We’re showing that we are not scared and that we will continue to keep Portland weird,' protested Briana Nathanielsz, who embraced a Frankenstein costume at a recent demonstration.

As Portland continues to adapt its protest strategies, these inflatable costumes serve not just as a form of amusement but as a serious statement of resilience against federal enforcement while reinforcing community spirit.