Thousands of protesters gathered in cities across the United States on Saturday, rallying against President Donald Trump’s policies on immigration, government layoffs, and international conflicts.
The nationwide demonstrations, part of the \”50501 movement\”—50 protests in 50 states in one day—brought together diverse groups unified in their opposition to the administration’s actions. Hunter Dunn, a spokesperson for the movement, described it as a \”pro-democracy, pro-Constitution, anti-executive-overreach, nonviolent grassroots movement.\”
In Washington, D.C., crowds assembled outside the White House, holding banners with messages like \”Workers should have the power,\” \”Stop arming Israel,\” and \”Due process.\” Chants echoed through Lafayette Square as demonstrators voiced support for migrants facing deportation and for federal employees affected by mass firings.
\”As Trump and his administration mobilize the U.S. deportation machine, we are going to organize networks of resistance to defend our neighbors,\” declared one protester during the rally.
Protesters also showed solidarity with global causes. Many waved Palestinian flags and chanted \”Free Palestine,\” expressing concern over civilians affected by the conflict in Gaza. Others carried symbols supporting Ukraine, urging stronger opposition to Russia’s actions in the region.
Since taking office in January, President Trump, alongside adviser Elon Musk, has overseen significant cuts to the federal workforce, with over 200,000 employees reportedly fired and various agencies targeted for dismantling. The administration’s stance has sparked outrage, especially among youth and activists concerned about the future.
\”Hate never made any nation great,\” read one banner near the Washington Monument. \”Equal rights for all does not mean less rights for you,\” proclaimed another.
Similar scenes unfolded in New York City, Chicago, and dozens of other locations, marking the second day of nationwide protests since Trump’s inauguration. Some groups organized community events like food drives and teach-ins, emphasizing solidarity and support for those affected by current policies.
In front of Vice President JD Vance’s residence, protesters gathered to voice their concerns, while downtown, the 50501 organizers hosted a mutual aid campaign, collecting essential supplies for those in need.
\”Our people are under pressure,\” read a flyer for the event. \”Laid off, left behind, locked out. Federal workers. Neighbors. Collective family. This isn’t new, and we’ve always had each other. Mutual aid is how we resist. Mutual aid is how we win.\”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com