“Hands Off! Hands Off!” was shouted by protesters outside state capitols, federal buildings, congressional offices, and more. This movement started on April 5, 2025, with over 1,400 protests nationwide and millions of protesters from all 50 states.
This movement was organized by over 150 labor, progressive, and civil rights organizations. The protests are a direct response to the significant cuts and policy changes implemented by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Participants are voicing their current concerns regarding cuts made to essential federal agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These actions are leading people to fear and feel the need to protect the future of healthcare, education and civil rights.
The new policies are seen by protesters as a discrimination, an attack on immigrants, a move to limit immigration and a way to take away non-citizen’s rights. Many are outraged over the new changes especially for those whose families were affected by the ICE raids. During the protests, people carried signs and gave speeches to advocate for immigrant rights. It was a reminder that immigrants are the base of this country, as it was once built on immigrants.
On April 19, the 50501 movement was in action. The numbers stood for a goal of holding 50 protests in all 50 states on one single day. The protests ranged from marches and rallies to community services with an emphasis on unity within communities. Protesters continued their previous demands for a stop to discrimination, deportation and cutting of federal funds. This time around, there was a focus on the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a migrant who’s wrongful deportation was halted by the Supreme Court. This case led to questions about how the immigration enforcement was being handled and the government’s disregard for due process.
When interviewed about the protests, Selena Lin, a senior at MKHS, said “They remind people that they are not alone in the fight for a better world, which is a potent tool in a time of such isolation and separation.”
The protests not only brought attention to pressing issues, such as the new immigration laws and funding cuts, but also a reminder that when people come together, their voices are louder. Altogether, the protests showed a powerful unity within communities to fight and defend their values, rights and pursuit of justice.
