BOSTON (WHDH) - A crowd of thousands gathered on Boston Common on Saturday, April 5, 2025, to participate in the ‘Hands Off Our Democracy!’ demonstration, protesting against President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk’s policies regarding federal funding and civil rights. This event is part of a nationwide effort, with similar protests taking place across the country, aimed at highlighting concerns over government downsizing and human rights issues.
By 10:30 a.m., hundreds of protesters, many holding signs and waving flags, had already assembled at the Parkman Bandstand, with the official start time set for 11 a.m. Massachusetts US Senator Ed Markey was expected to address the crowd before leading a march to City Hall Plaza. Estimates suggest that around 20,000 people attended the Boston event, making it one of the largest gatherings of the day.
The rally was organized by the 50501 Movement, which aimed to hold protests in every U.S. state simultaneously. The group’s mission statement emphasized their commitment to protecting neighbors regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or religion. Protesters carried signs with slogans like “Hands off Boston! Hands off Massachusetts! Hands off America!” and many displayed quotes from Senator Cory Booker’s recent speech in Congress.
Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll reminded the crowd that the state was the “birthplace of democracy,” emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. “The federal administration thinks this country belongs to them — and that they’re above the law,” she stated, underscoring the frustrations many feel toward the current administration.
Reverend Mariama White-Hammond spoke passionately about the significance of the day, noting that they marched past a monument honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the anniversary of his death. “We are the country of Martin Luther King,” she declared, affirming the crowd’s commitment to community over chaos.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also addressed the crowd, recalling her recent testimony before Congress regarding Boston’s status as a sanctuary city. “They’re focused on Boston because we stand for everything they seek to tear down,” she asserted, connecting local struggles to national issues.
Protesters voiced their opposition to various Trump administration actions, including plans to fire thousands of federal workers, close Social Security Administration field offices, and cut funding for health programs. Musk, who heads the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been a focal point of criticism for his role in these policies. He claims that his efforts are saving taxpayers billions of dollars.
Senator Ed Markey was particularly vocal about the plight of Tufts University doctoral student Rümeysa Öztürk, who was arrested by immigration agents and is currently detained in Louisiana. “Freedom of speech is a right, not a crime. Release Rümeysa now, Donald Trump! Release her!” Markey urged, drawing attention to the broader implications of immigration enforcement and civil rights.
Among the crowd was Jeremy Zolan, a 35-year-old machinist from Connecticut, who expressed his dismay over the cuts to federal funding affecting scientific research. “Seeing all these people losing their jobs in scientific research, all these projects shut down, it is going to directly harm this country,” he lamented, highlighting the personal impact of federal budget decisions.
The Dropkick Murphys, a well-known Boston punk band, performed an acoustic set at the rally, further energizing the crowd. The band has been vocal about their political views, with lead singer Ken Casey recently challenging a fan wearing a Trump shirt to check the origins of his apparel.
As the march progressed from Boston Common to City Hall Plaza, the atmosphere remained peaceful, with the Boston Police Department reporting no incidents. Officer Mark Marron stated, “On our end, there were no arrests related to the protests, no violent incidents. Nothing to report.” This peaceful demonstration underscored the organizers’ intent to advocate for change without resorting to violence.
The nationwide “Hands Off” protests are part of a larger movement against what activists describe as a “billionaire takeover” of American democracy. Organizers hope that these demonstrations will galvanize support for civil rights and government accountability, aiming to create a united front against the perceived threats posed by the current administration.
As the day progressed, speakers continued to emphasize the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity, with many attendees expressing hope that their voices would be heard in Washington. The protests across the country reflect a growing discontent with federal policies and a desire for a more inclusive and equitable society.
With more than 1,200 events planned nationwide, the “Hands Off” demonstrations represent a significant mobilization of activists from various backgrounds, including civil rights organizations, labor unions, and LGBTQ+ advocates. This collective effort aims to ensure that the voices of those affected by current policies are not silenced.
As the rally concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to continue their fight for democracy and civil rights. The energy in Boston Common on this rainy Saturday was a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring spirit of those who stand up for their beliefs.
