In an unprecedented show of unity, Americans from New York to Alaska mobilized in more than 1,200 locations on Saturday to protest President Donald Trump’s policies and Elon Musk’s role in government downsizing. The rallies, collectively dubbed “Hands Off!,” were organized by over 150 civil rights organizations, labor unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, veterans, and election reform activists.
Demonstrations spanned all 50 states, with peaceful marches reported from Midtown Manhattan to Anchorage, Alaska, and several state capitols. Protesters voiced concerns about the administration’s sweeping actions, including the firing of thousands of federal employees, the closure of Social Security field offices, and reduced protections for marginalized communities. Musk, heading the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency, has been pivotal in these measures, arguing that they save taxpayers billions.
In Washington, D.C., Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson addressed a crowd at the National Mall, criticizing the administration’s rollback of LGBTQ+ rights. “These attacks go beyond politics—they’re deeply personal,” said Robinson. Protesters nationwide echoed similar sentiments, carrying slogans such as “Fight the Oligarchy” and “Hands Off Our Democracy.”
Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston emphasized the need to defend diversity and equality: “I refuse to accept a world where immigrants like my family are presumed criminals.”
The protests signal a reinvigorated opposition movement reminiscent of landmark events like the Women’s March of 2017. Activists stressed the urgency of the moment. Deborah Doherty, a graphic designer in San Jose, said, “The numbness we’re seeing is frightening. Every city must show up.”