Nationwide “Not My President’s Day” Protests Draw Thousands Against Trump

Thousands of protesters in the US took to the streets on Not My President’s Day to show their distaste for then-President Donald Trump. The protests, which were held on Presidents’ Day, were organized in a number of cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco. Protesters criticized Trump’s immigration policy, healthcare, women’s rights, and alleged Russian ties.

Widespread Opposition
The demonstrations were a manifestation of the polarizations in American politics during Trump’s term. Most of the demonstrators carried “Not My President” and “Resist” signs and chanted against Trump policies. Thousands also marched in New York City, outside Trump Tower, to protest the administration’s stance on issues like the Muslim travel ban and the repeal of the Affordable Care Act.

Washington, D.C., was where marchers converged on the White House, calling for the Trump administration to be more transparent and accountable. Protesters marched in Chicago and Los Angeles demanding action on climate change, immigration policy, and what they see as threats to democracy.

Grassroots Movement
Unlike other protests, such as the Women’s March, the “Not My President’s Day” protests were more grassroots-based, employing social media and community organizing. Protesters reminded everyone that the movement was not against the democratic election process but against Trump’s policies and rhetoric.

Organizers said the protests reminded everyone that democracy relies on engaged civic participation. Numerous speakers urged individuals to vote in future elections, advocate for progressive policies, and keep resisting policies that they believed were harmful.

Impact and Reactions
While the Trump administration largely dismissed the protests, they testified to ongoing resistance to his presidency. The protests were condemned by Trump supporters, who argued that the protests constituted an attempt to illegitimate a democratically elected president.

Despite political polarization, the protests illustrated an intense opposition movement