Rally Details and Mobilization Efforts

On April 5, a nationwide rally titled ‘Hands Off Our Government’ is poised to take place, with community members and political groups rallying across the Peninsula to voice their discontent with the Trump administration. The mid-Peninsula chapter of Indivisible, a group dedicated to resisting the Republican agenda, is spearheading a march at San Francisco’s Civic Center Plaza from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Spokesperson Sarah Sherwood expects that over 1,000 individuals will join the event.

Local Protests Scheduled

In addition to the main march in San Francisco, smaller protests will occur in various locations on the Peninsula:

• Redwood City: Gathering from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and El Camino Real.
• San Mateo: Mobilization event planned from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 1528 S. El Camino Real.

Concerns About the Current Administration

Participants have expressed grave concerns regarding the actions taken by the Trump administration recently. Critics have articulated fears stemming from significant federal funding cuts, collaboration with billionaire advisors like Elon Musk, and potential threats such as mass deportation and detainment of legal citizens. The atmosphere of unrest is further fueled by concerns over tariffs imposed on both allies and adversaries and challenges to First Amendment rights.

Voices from the Protest

Jim Sanderson, a veteran of the National Guard who served during the Vietnam War, articulated that the erosion of laws and norms under the current administration has motivated him to take action. He believes that participation in Indivisible events with others who share similar concerns is a proactive response to the feeling of losing control.

“What’s going on is just crazy,” Sanderson remarked. “I’ve got to do something — just like when I chose to join the National Guard — I want to do something or else I’ll explode.”

Reflecting on his experiences, Sanderson has worked closely with veterans and understands the challenges they face. The prospect of cuts to essential services for veterans, including Social Security and support from the Department of Veterans Affairs, has compelled him to act.

The Power of Peaceful Protest

Sanderson emphasized the importance of peaceful protest as a legitimate means of expressing collective dissatisfaction with governance that neglects vulnerable populations. He advocates for civil engagement, stating:

“Voters that still have manners — it’s the best thing you can do. Let’s gather and show people there’s a lot of people like us that don’t like what you’re doing.”