Thousands of people across the United States gathered on Saturday to voice their concerns about the presidency of Donald J. Trump. The protests coincided with International Women’s Day and focused on a range of issues, including Trump’s approach to the war in Ukraine, his policies on reproductive rights, and the dismissal of federal workers.
Organizers set up about 300 protests nationwide. Some events, like the one in Washington Square Park in Manhattan, drew thousands of participants. Others, in smaller cities such as Richmond, Virginia, Sarasota, Florida, and Port Angeles, Washington, had a more modest turnout. In Madison, Wisconsin, more than 120 people showed up to express their views.
In New York City, demonstrators were particularly vocal about Trump’s treatment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, restrictions on transgender rights, and what many see as a threat to democracy in the country. Among the protesters were Nancy Lewis, 80, who had participated in civil rights demonstrations in Selma, Alabama, during her youth, and Lauren Yoo, 26, who had little protest experience but felt compelled to join the movement.
“A lot of women are feeling like they are going back in time,” Yoo said. “So I feel like it’s good to come out here and voice our concerns, and stand with all women.”
The protests highlighted a growing frustration among many Americans regarding current political issues, particularly those affecting women and marginalized communities. As people took to the streets, they aimed to raise awareness and push for change in policies that they believe are unjust.