Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Washington and cities across the U.S. on Saturday to express their opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies on deportations, government firings, and the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.
Outside the White House, demonstrators waved banners reading slogans such as “Workers should have the power,” “No kingship,” “Stop arming Israel,” and “Due process,” as shown in media footage.
Protesters rallied in support of migrants facing deportation under Trump’s policies and expressed solidarity with individuals fired by the federal government. They also voiced concern over the threat to university funding, particularly for institutions involved in diversity and climate initiatives or pro-Palestinian protests.
“As Trump and his administration mobilize the U.S. deportation machine, we are going to organize networks and systems of resistance to defend our neighbors,” one protester said at Lafayette Square near the White House.
The protests also featured strong support for Palestine, with demonstrators waving Palestinian flags, wearing keffiyeh scarves, and chanting “Free Palestine” in solidarity with those affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Additionally, some protesters displayed support for Ukraine, urging the U.S. to take a stronger stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion.
Since taking office in January, Trump, along with his ally Elon Musk, has significantly reduced the size of the federal workforce, firing over 200,000 employees and attempting to dismantle key agencies. The administration has also targeted foreign students and threatened to withdraw funding from universities over programs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, climate change, and support for pro-Palestinian protests. Rights groups have strongly criticized these actions.
Near the Washington Monument, protesters held signs that read: “Hate never made any nation great” and “Equal rights for all does not mean less rights for you.”
Demonstrations were held in other major cities, including New York City and Chicago, marking the second consecutive day of nationwide protests since Trump’s inauguration.
