Thousands took to the streets of Washington D.C. on Saturday, rallying against President-elect Donald Trump just days before his inauguration, reigniting concerns about women's rights, racial justice, and environmental issues. The event, dubbed the People’s March—a rebranding of the Women’s March—drew demonstrators from various activist backgrounds, reflecting the diverse issues they feel are under threat.
These protests were not just confined to the nation’s capital; across the country, over 350 similar marches showed solidarity for causes like reproductive rights and climate change. Protesters gathered under ominous skies at Farragut Square before making their way toward the Lincoln Memorial, chanting slogans such as "Save America" and "Hate won’t win"—messages aimed squarely at the upcoming Trump administration.
Following the first Women's March after Trump's initial election victory, which saw more than 500,000 marchers, this year’s turnout was considerably lower, with local authorities estimating around 25,000 participants. "It's just hard to capture lightning in a bottle," said Tamika Middleton, managing director of the Women’s March, referencing the historical significance of the first protests compared to this year's. Nevertheless, many protesters felt it was important to stand up once again, underscoring their commitment to various rights.
Speakers at the rally emphasized the importance of resilience, highlighting the energy and focus among the assembled groups. "Before we do anything about democracy, we have to fight our own despair," stated Rachel O'Leary Carmona, executive director of Women’s March. The prevailing sentiment among participants was one of urgency, with many expressing worries about the consequences of Trump's policies. Olivia Hoffman, who marched with her mother, voiced the widespread disillusionment among the crowd, saying, "A lot of people feel like we’ve been fighting for the same things for so long.”
Despite the apprehension, there was also hope among the demonstrators. Nancy Robinson, 65, participated to show solidarity, stating, "I’m glad I can see some people here are hopeful." Others, like Preethi Murthy, emphasized the need to keep the momentum going, saying, "We have to show we’re bigger in numbers and we’re not going to back down.”
The event unfolded amid heightened security due to concerns about potential clashes with Trump supporters. There were reported moments of tension, including the intervention of police when one supporter attempted to provoke the demonstrators. Authorities were on alert, as they anticipated the political environment surrounding Trump’s inauguration could breed unrest.
The atmosphere during the protests was markedly different from the fierce outrage seen during Trump's first inauguration. Activists expressed feelings of exhaustion as they face another term from Trump. "The reality is, it’s just hard to capture lightning in a bottle," remarked Tamika Middleton, reflecting on the challenges of reigniting the fervor felt during earlier protests.
Among the marchers, some donned the distinctive pink hats symbolic of past women’s marches, and others carried signs depicting powerful messages such as "We won’t back down" and "United For Change". The fragmentation of the movement after the initial Women's March was acknowledged, with plans for the People’s March geared toward creating broader support by encompassing various themes beyond women’s rights, including immigration rights and climate action.
Meanwhile, within the same timeframe, Donald Trump arrived for his inauguration celebrations, poised to take office once again. The festivities included receptions and fireworks at his golf club outside Washington. The juxtaposition of jubilant celebrations against the backdrop of widespread dissent painted a complex picture as the nation braced for his upcoming term.
Participants such as Tiffany Flowers, who heads a voting rights coalition, highlighted the shock and disbelief felt when Trump secured his victory against Kamala Harris, illustrating the emotional impact the election results had on many activists. "I was going to keep fighting for democracy... but now we face another layer of challenges," she shared, reflecting on the uncertain political climate and what it means for voters who value civil rights.
With the inauguration on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, many activists see the timing as significant, linking their struggles to the civil rights movement’s principles. Organizers anticipate more protests and rallies to continue throughout the inauguration weekend, reinforcing the message across various communities and advocating for progressive ideals.
Mini Timmaraju, chief executive of Reproductive Freedom for All, praised the gathering, stating, "in the face of what’s going to be some really horrible extremism." The atmosphere, though punctuated by moments of anger, also exhibited a collective spirit committed to standing against policies viewed as oppressive.
This year's rally, smaller yet fierce, signifies the persistence of activist movements fighting for rights and social justice, demonstrating through their presence and voices at the nation’s capital, their refusal to be ignored or subdued. They rallied against not just the man taking office but the policies they fear will overshadow their rights and aspirations for equality.