Protesters attended a “Hands Off” rally on Saturday, demonstrating against policies seen as detrimental to American values at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators united across the country on Saturday with differing concerns but shared opposition to the Trump administration, rallying under the slogan: “Hands Off!”
More than 1,300 “Hands Off!” rallies were organized nationwide, showcasing widespread discontent with recent government actions.
Since President Trump took office, a variety of protests have emerged against his administration’s policies, encompassing a range of issues from federal workforce reductions to contentious immigration policies. Saturday’s protests marked one of the most extensive mobilizations during Trump’s second term.
“There are numerous issues at hand,” said Kelley Laird from Rockville, Md., who participated in the rally in D.C. “They are coming after education, health care, the arts, and press freedoms.”
In Boston, protesters gathered to oppose federal research funding cuts and voiced their support for Tufts University doctoral student Rümeysa Öztürk, who was arrested by agents in plain clothes.
In Sylva, N.C., over 300 individuals protested cuts to national parks, education, and veterans’ services, while in Portland, Ore., several thousand rallied against what they termed an “illegal power grab” by Trump and billionaire Elon Musk.
In D.C., thousands gathered near the Washington Monument, advocating for reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, Social Security, and veterans benefits, while opposing tariffs.
Many attendees emphasized the importance of collective activism. “We need to form community to support one another because this is a long-term battle,” expressed Emily Peck, who leads a supportive group for like-minded individuals.
Veterans Colleen Boland and Sonia Lundy described their activism as an extension of their military oath to protect American citizens. They expressed serious concerns regarding the future of Social Security and veterans’ benefits amid proposed changes by the Trump administration.
As Americans continue to confront various governmental decisions, the rallies serve as a powerful reminder of the collective voice advocating for accountability and preservation of essential rights.
