On Saturday, the Washington Monument was encircled by thousands of signs conveying a myriad of messages. Among them were slogans like “Support Ukraine,” “Beware of DOGE,” and “Protect Trans Lives,” capturing the diverse sentiments of the crowd. Some signs expressed sheer frustration with the statement: “Where do I start…”
The nationwide Hands Off protests drew millions of participants at approximately 1,300 events, according to organizers. The demonstrations were fueled by various causes but prominently featured two figures: President Donald Trump and billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk. While some protesters highlighted a singular issue, others attempted to encapsulate multiple concerns on their placards. The unifying message directed at the US government was clear: safeguard democracy and refrain from interfering with vital programs and agencies.
The assembly in Washington, DC, which exceeded 100,000 according to estimates from organizers, remained peaceful and orderly. Prominent lawmakers such as Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and Maxwell Frost (D-FL), along with AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, addressed the audience from a stage behind the Washington Monument. Attendees listened intently, occasionally engaging in call-and-response chants, cheers, or expressing discontent towards the Trump administration. Further in the distance, a growing crowd continued to gather, amplifying the collective voice for change.
