Thousands gather in Washington to protest Trump inauguration
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Washington, D.C. on January 18, 2025, to protest against the impending inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, scheduled for January 20. This event, known as the People’s March, is a rebranding of the Women’s March that has taken place annually since 2017. Protesters voiced concerns over Trump’s policies regarding women’s rights, racial justice, immigration reform, and other social issues.
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Washington, D.C. on January 18, 2025, to protest the upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, scheduled for January 20. This event, known as the People’s March, is a continuation of the Women’s March that began in 2017 following Trump’s first inauguration.
The protest was organized by a coalition of nonprofit organizations focused on various social issues, including women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigration. Participants raised slogans and displayed banners opposing Trump’s policies and expressing concerns about the potential erosion of rights for marginalized groups during his second term. Notable slogans included “F**k Trump!” and “Trans Lives Matter!”.
Despite inclement weather conditions, which included cold temperatures and high winds, the turnout was significant, although lower than previous years. Estimates suggest around 5,000 attendees participated this year, compared to the anticipated 50,000. The march started from three different parks and concluded at the Lincoln Memorial, where speakers addressed the crowd about their concerns and motivations for protesting.
This year’s People’s March also coincided with Trump’s arrival in Washington for inaugural events. While many protesters expressed solidarity with each other and shared personal stories about their motivations—ranging from advocating for women’s autonomy to concerns over climate change—some pro-Trump supporters were also present in the area, highlighting a stark divide in public sentiment.
As Trump prepares for his inauguration, he has made adjustments to the event’s logistics due to severe weather forecasts, opting to hold the ceremony indoors at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda rather than outside as originally planned.
Key Details of the Protest
Attendance: Organizers anticipated around 50,000 participants, but actual turnout was approximately 5,000, significantly lower than previous years.
Location: The march began at three different parks and culminated at the Lincoln Memorial, with participants carrying signs and chanting slogans against Trump and his administration.
Coalition Support: The event was supported by a coalition of organizations advocating for various causes, including reproductive rights, environmental issues, and civil rights. Notable groups included Planned Parenthood and the Sierra Club.
Many attendees expressed feelings of anger and frustration regarding Trump’s return to power. For instance, Jillian Wheat from Ohio articulated fears that Trump would undermine democracy. Another participant highlighted a sense of disillusionment with ongoing struggles for rights and justice.
The People’s March serves as a continuation of protests against Trump’s presidency that began after his first inauguration in 2017. While the current protests are smaller in scale, they reflect ongoing concerns about potential threats to constitutional rights under Trump’s administration.
