On April 5, a wave of creativity swept citizens across the United States to express their belief in posters and protests. The 50501 group organized a national protest called “Hands-Off,” mobilizing people across the United States to oppose Trump’s policies and actions. More than 1,200 events were organized across all 50 states and cities globally. This event highlighted not only the importance of civic engagement but also the public’s opposition to Trump’s executive orders, executive actions, Elon Musk’s involvement in governmental affairs and the severe measures of deportation.
“I was just scrolling through my For You page and the Hands Off protest kept popping up. It’s kinda crazy how many students were out there, all chanting and holding signs. It’s clear that people are paying attention and want to be heard. This definitely made me stop and think about how much power we really have when we stand together,” senior Bridghett Vazquez said.
Born on Reddit, the idea, 50 protests in 50 states all on one day, quickly spread all over social media. The 50501 organization, a grassroots group, focused on responding to Trump’s anti-democratic and unlawful actions, rapidly gaining momentum nationwide. The movement further aimed to demonstrate to the world that some Americans would not stand by while the wealthy damaged democratic institutions. The April 5 protest was designed as a non-violent, national action to unite all the citizens of the United States. underneath the shared message of resistance and remind leaders that public opposition remains strong.
“People were really speaking up with courage and purpose. It felt like a moment in history happening right in front of us. Even from behind a screen, you could feel how important it was to everyone involved,” sophomore Liz Castillo said.
The purpose of the movement was present in all 50 states with enormous protests in bigger cities like New York and Washington, D.C. Aside from the ongoing protests in the United States, different cities like London and Berlin also participated in small protests where protesters got together to show support.
People of every age and profession gathered together to protest, united by their shared worries about the policies being threatened. The majority featured a mix of speakers, including nongovernmental organizations, youth leaders and activists who stand against Trump’s executive orders. All of the protests were held in locations like university campuses, town squares and community centers, where activists held posters and non-violent protests.
“My older cousin went and sent me pictures and then I saw more being posted all over TikTok. Everyone had such bold messages and which were really empowering. I felt like the protest was a wake up call for a lot of people. It’s not just noise, it’s people demanding to be heard,” sophomore Emily Garcell said.
The movement received nation-wide media attention from major news outlets like Cable News Network and National Broadcasting Company News. #HandsOff and #50501Protest were Twitters’ and Instagrams’ hashtags of the day, with people sharing pictures and videos of the event. TikTok users also joined in by sharing poster-making tutorials and live updates, which reached younger audiences in hopes of getting them to join. With the help of the media, the protest was able to spread awareness, particularly to those who were unaware of Trump’s new political actions.
“Honestly, I didn’t even know the protest was happening until I saw it trending. The signs and seeing people advocate was truly inspiring. It made me realize how much people our age actually care about politics and rights, which was really eye opening. Even though I didn’t attend, I get why it matters,” senior Christopher Gonzalez said.
A defining characteristic of the protest was the creative expression displayed through the activists’ hand-made posters and art work. Across cities and campuses, heaps of people introduced signs that reflected their messages, concerns and calls to movement. While some posters referenced historical or public figures, others used humor or symbolism to drive home their points. The art frequently addressed troubles including immigration, women’s rights, environmental concerns and the protection of democratic values. Beyond the content of the signs, the act of making and showing them allowed individuals to feel connected to the movement and to one another.
Protesters demanded protection for their reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights and voting rights. Many further protested against current government actions and policies on education, free speech and immigration. Across multiple cities, protesters gave speeches demanding justice, equality and accountability from the federal government.
The Hands-Off protest established the continuing importance of civic movement and public expression while unlawful actions are taking place. Although the April 5 protest was a one-day event, organizers have already introduced an upcoming protest planned for April 19 that is expected to further focus on spreading the original message. These protests served as a reminder of ways people can collectively unite to make their voices heard, not simply via speeches, but through symbols, artwork and a unified movement.
