Thousands of demonstrators marched in Washington DC on Saturday to protest against the policies of US President-elect Donald Trump and the Republican Party, just two days before the billionaire returns to office.
A united front on key issues
Civil rights and social justice groups organised the “People’s March,” with contributions from the team behind the 2017 Women’s March, which drew hundreds of thousands to the capital after Trump’s first inauguration.
Participants highlighted concerns over issues they believe are at risk under Trump’s leadership. These included abortion rights, climate action, protection from gun violence, and immigrant rights.
Crowds gathered at three parks in downtown Washington before marching to the Lincoln Memorial for a rally. Bright signs and pink hats from the 2017 movement were prominent throughout the gathering.
A demonstrator, Aisha Becker-Burrowes, stressed the dangers posed by certain legislative changes, saying, “These laws endanger our lives. Women are dying,” while chants of “my body, my choice” rang out.
Voices from the protest
Susan Dutwells, a 60-year-old protester from Florida who attended with her daughter, shared her concern: “So many people are voting against their own interests. I don’t understand it.”
Carine, a 40-year-old from Arizona, admitted feeling nervous about what another term of Trump’s presidency might bring but emphasised her resolve. “I’m trying to remain hopeful. Being surrounded by so many people feels good. I’ll continue the fight back home,” she said, adding that this was her first protest in the US capital.
Sarah Kong, a 31-year-old psychiatrist from Colorado, participated alongside her mother. She remarked, “I have faith in the future, even though I’m scared. This is my first time marching. And I want to do this again. I feel motivated and inspired by all these people.”
Protesters also planned sister marches in other cities across the country, including New York.
Immigration crackdown and inaugural events
Tom Homan, Trump’s incoming “border czar,” announced plans for a nationwide immigration enforcement operation. Speaking to Fox News, he confirmed a “big raid” would take place shortly after Trump’s inauguration on Monday.
Trump defeated Vice-President Kamala Harris in November’s election and is now set to begin his second term in office.
Trump planned to arrive in Washington later on Saturday for a private inaugural event at his Virginia golf club, which featured a fireworks display.
