Nationwide 'Hands Off!' Protests Erupt Across the United States

WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America - 6 April 2025

On Saturday, 5 April 2025, hundreds of thousands of demonstrators gathered in cities across the United States to participate in the "Hands Off!" protests, expressing opposition to various policies enacted by President Donald Trump and his administration. Organized by a coalition of civil rights, labor, and advocacy groups, the protests addressed concerns ranging from recent tariff implementations and immigration policies to federal workforce reductions. ​

The protests were held in over 1,200 cities nationwide, with significant turnouts in major metropolitan areas. In Washington D.C., organizers anticipated over 20,000 attendees, while cities such as Madison, Wisconsin, saw crowds exceeding 10,000 participants. Demonstrators carried signs with messages like "Restore Democracy" and "Hands off our personal data," reflecting a broad spectrum of grievances. ​

Among the primary concerns voiced by protesters were the recent imposition of sweeping tariffs by the Trump administration, stringent immigration policies and the administration's approach to deportations, and significant cuts to federal agencies, including a 25% reduction in IRS staff.

Charlene Bechen, a leader with the Oregon Wisconsin Area Progressives, addressed the crowd in Madison, stating, "Our next few years will be tough. MAGA leaders will launch attack after attack... We cannot allow that." Luis Velasquez, an organizer for Voces de la Frontera, highlighted the challenges faced by immigrants, sharing his personal experience as a DACA recipient without a pathway to citizenship. ​

Protests extended beyond U.S. borders, with demonstrations occurring in European cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Paris, and London. In Berlin, protesters gathered in front of a Tesla showroom, directing slogans at Elon Musk, a senior adviser to President Trump and head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Signs read, "Shut up Elon, no one voted for you," reflecting discontent with Musk's influence in the administration. ​

Amid the nationwide protests, Representative Al Green announced plans to file articles of impeachment against President Trump within the next thirty days, citing the administration's policies and actions as grounds for removal. ​

President Trump continued his scheduled activities in Florida, including a round of golf, and has not issued a formal response to the protests. White House officials have downplayed the demonstrations, emphasizing the administration's commitment to its policy agenda. 

The "Hands Off!" protests underscore a growing wave of public dissent against the Trump administration's policies, reflecting deep divisions within the nation as citizens mobilize to voice their concerns.

Image: Myotus/Wikimedia Commons

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