City of Flint Reaffirms Support for Peaceful Protest, Condemns Threats and Outside Incitement

FLINT, MI — The City of Flint reaffirms its strong support for the First Amendment rights of all residents to peacefully protest and engage in civic discourse. At the same time, the City strongly condemns the escalation of threatening, intimidating, and disruptive behavior, particularly from individuals who are not residents of Flint and have a history of inciting chaos at public meetings across the country.

“The City of Flint will always protect the right to free speech,” said Clyde Edwards, City Administrator. “But when individuals travel from outside our community to provoke conflict, threaten elected officials, and disrupt the democratic process, that is not protest, that is provocation.”

Recent protests in Flint have included a series of highly inflammatory actions that go beyond peaceful demonstration, including threats to public officials and disorderly conduct. City officials have confirmed that several of the protest organizers and participants are not Flint residents, but rather known individuals who have disrupted city council meetings in other municipalities across the country.

“Flint residents deserve honest conversation and community-driven solutions—not staged chaos,” said Edwards. “Outside agitators do not speak for this city.”

The City of Flint will continue to promote engagement and access to government, while also working with law enforcement to ensure the safety of residents, employees, and elected officials. Violence, harassment, or intimidation of any kind will not be tolerated.

Mayor Sheldon Neeley and City leadership remain committed to advancing the priorities of Flint residents, including youth employment, public safety, infrastructure investment, and long-term financial stability.

“Flint’s future will be built by those who live here, love this city, and want to see it thrive,” Edwards said. “We will not be distracted.”