Thousands of protesters gathered in Washington D.C., New York City, Chicago, and cities across the U.S. on Saturday, voicing opposition to policies enacted under former President Donald Trump, including immigration enforcement, federal workforce reductions, and foreign conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.
The demonstrations, organized under the grassroots 50501 movement (50 protests, 50 states, one day), aimed to unite citizens against what organizers called "executive overreach." Hunter Dunn, a spokesperson, described the movement as "pro-democracy and pro-Constitution," emphasizing nonviolent resistance.
Protesters outside the White House carried banners demanding workers' rights, an end to U.S. arms sales to Israel, and due process for migrants facing deportation. Some chanted solidarity messages for Palestinians affected by the Gaza conflict, waving flags and wearing keffiyeh scarves, while others urged stronger U.S. support for Ukraine against Russia.
The protests also highlighted domestic concerns. Participants criticized Trump’s administration for firing over 200,000 federal workers and threatening funding to universities over diversity initiatives. "We’re building systems of resistance to defend our neighbors," one rally attendee near Lafayette Square stated.
In addition to marches, community-driven efforts like food drives and volunteer activities took place. Outside Tesla dealerships, demonstrators targeted Trump ally Elon Musk’s role in government downsizing. Meanwhile, a mutual aid campaign in downtown D.C. collected supplies for affected communities, with flyers declaring, "Mutual aid is how we win."
This marked the second wave of nationwide protests since Trump’s January inauguration, reflecting growing public dissent over key policy decisions.
