Garland Police say the protesters refused to stop blocking traffic and business entrances, so they were arrested without incident early Thursday morning.
GARLAND, Texas — Garland Police say 23 people were arrested early Thursday morning after they refused to stop blocking roads and access to the General Dynamics facility on North Glenbrook Drive. But police say the protesters surrendered peacefully after making their voices heard about U.S.-made munitions and their use in the war in Gaza.
“Our government is doing nothing to stop it,” said protester Jo Hargis. “And the people of the United States have the responsibility to stand up and stop what their government is doing.”
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems in Garland is one of 28 company locations for the defense contractor across the country
Garland Police say the protest started around 4:30 a.m. with protesters and multiple vehicles blocking traffic and blocking entrances to the facility. Police say they advised the protesters that they could continue their protest all day if they wished, provided they were not blocking traffic. They refused. So, in addition to the 23 arrests for obstructing a roadway and/or trespassing, police also had 13 vehicles towed.
“They surrendered peacefully. There was no physical altercation. They were loud. They were speaking their thoughts. But ultimately, when it came time to arrest them, they peacefully surrendered,” said Garland Police spokesperson Pedro Barineau.
The protest mirrors other marches and actions across the country: protests demanding an end to U.S. involvement in the war in Gaza.
On Thursday, President Joe Biden directed the U.S. military to set up a temporary port on the Gaza coast to deliver food, water, medicine, and temporary shelters as ceasefire talks remain at a standstill.
But in Garland, supporters of today’s protest also began to gather outside the Garland jail, where the protesters were temporarily held.
“Their message is very clear. They are protesting General Dynamics because of their complicity,” said Nida Lafi with the Dallas chapter of the Palestinian Youth Movement.
A General Dynamics spokesperson tells WFAA, “We have no comment other than that we appreciate the efforts of local law enforcement to keep our employees safe.”
