Progressive groups organized protests in various cities on Presidents Day, denouncing President Donald Trump's policies and actions. The demonstrations, known as the 'Not My Presidents Day' or 'No Kings Day' protests, were orchestrated by the 50501 Movement, a coalition of activists critical of what they perceive as Trump's 'executive overreach.'
From Austin to Orlando, Boston to Phoenix, and Washington, D.C., protesters gathered with handmade signs, voicing their dissent through songs and chants. In the nation's capital, over a thousand individuals congregated at the Capitol Reflecting Pool to express their opposition.
Organizers like Sarah from the 50501 Movement and Voices of Florida called for unity among activists nationwide, vowing to resist what they term as 'fascism' and combat 'Project 2025.' Protesters in Washington, D.C., carried signs advocating to 'impeach' Elon Musk, resist the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and protect the republic.
Participants shared their motivations for protesting, citing concerns over Trump's presidency, executive orders, and the administration's impact on marginalized communities. Educators like Mary Hart expressed fear for their immigrant and transgender students, highlighting the need to resist policies that target vulnerable populations.
Jerome Bobowski, a father from Detroit, led chants demanding accountability from Congress to safeguard his daughters' rights. Protesters voiced apprehensions about potential infringements on personal freedoms, while the White House defended Trump's leadership as inclusive and responsive to the electorate.
The 50501 Movement, initiated through a Reddit post, has gained momentum on social media with hashtags like #buildtheresistance and #50501. The movement's decentralized structure allows local groups to define their objectives, focusing on countering Project 2025 and empowering grassroots activism.
Emphasizing reproductive, immigrant, and queer rights, the 50501 Movement remains unaffiliated with any political party and lacks a centralized leadership. Peaceful demonstrations and civil disobedience were underscored as core principles during the protests in Washington, D.C.
