Widespread demonstrations swept across the United States and several cities abroad in response to controversial policies implemented by President Donald Trump.
The protests, described as the most significant wave of civil unrest since his return to the Oval Office, drew tens of thousands of participants.
Major cities including Washington D.C., New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Denver saw large crowds gather to voice their opposition to the Trump administration. Protesters expressed concern over a range of issues—from government overreach and economic policies to threats against civil liberties and international relations.
Public Outcry from Coast to Coast
In Manhattan, Shaina Kesner, a 43-year-old artist, joined fellow New Yorkers in the march. “I’m constantly angry,” she said. “It feels like our country is being controlled by the privileged elite—men with no regard for justice or equality.”
Over in Washington, demonstrators filled the National Mall, with many traveling long distances to be part of the movement. Diane Kolifrath, a 64-year-old tour guide from New Hampshire, said, “We brought nearly 100 people here today. This administration is alienating our allies and tearing apart the foundation of our own government. It’s unacceptable.”
Symbolism and Global Solidarity
The protests were marked by powerful visual symbolism. In Los Angeles, a woman dressed as a character from The Handmaid’s Tale held a sign reading, “Get out of my uterus”—a direct rebuke of the administration’s stance on reproductive rights.
In Denver, demonstrators carried signs such as “No King for USA,” criticizing what many view as President Trump’s authoritarian tendencies.
Internationally, protests extended to cities like London and Berlin. In the British capital, Liz Chamberlin, a dual US-British citizen, stressed that Trump’s economic policies affect the entire world. “What’s unfolding in the U.S. is a global issue,” she said. “His actions could trigger a worldwide recession.”
In Berlin, 70-year-old retiree Susanne Fest voiced alarm over what she described as a constitutional crisis in the United States. “This isn’t just bad leadership. It’s dangerous,” she said.
A Nationwide Movement Gains Momentum
According to AFP, the demonstrations were spearheaded by progressive groups such as MoveOn and Women’s March, and were branded under the theme “Hands Off.” More than 1,000 events reportedly took place, covering every congressional district in the U.S.
The unrest stems from multiple grievances—cuts to government programs, anti-immigration policies, perceived attacks on democratic institutions, and divisive trade deals. Critics argue these policies have contributed to growing instability in the markets and deteriorating trust in American leadership.
“We’re here to stop what feels like the rise of fascism,” said Boston protester Dominic Santella. “We’re standing up against a government that targets immigrants, suppresses dissent, and threatens democracy.”
Democratic Leaders Join the Chorus of Dissent
Several Democratic leaders lent their voices to the protests. At the Washington D.C. rally, Congressman Jamie Raskin, a key figure in Trump’s impeachment trials, addressed the crowd: “No ethical person wants a reckless, economy-wrecking strongman who knows the price of everything but the value of nothing.”
Veteran civil rights activist Graylan Hagler also took the stage, delivering a fiery message to those in power. “They’ve awakened a sleeping giant. We’re not backing down. We’re not staying silent. And we’re not going away.”
Peaceful but Powerful
Despite the scale and intensity of the protests, they remained largely peaceful. People of all ages participated—some elderly, others with young children in tow. The mood was one of unity and determination.
The turnout far exceeded expectations. While organizers initially estimated a crowd of around 20,000 in Washington, actual numbers were reported to be significantly higher, reminiscent of the historic Women’s March in 2017.
Nevertheless, the Trump administration has largely dismissed the demonstrations. President Trump, who continues to enjoy strong support from his political base, remained defiant. “My policies will not change,” he declared during a press briefing on Friday.
