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Residents in D.C. protest against armed federal troop presence, citing community safety concerns.
WASHINGTON — As federal agents and military troops continue patrolling D.C. neighborhoods, residents are voicing growing concern over their presence — and the decision to allow troops to carry firearms.
On Thursday, hundreds gathered for an interfaith prayer vigil in Southeast Washington, calling for unity and standing in support of those who feel targeted by federal enforcement actions.
“You’re taking our jobs, our food programs. You’re snatching up our citizens and we’re saying enough is enough,” said Rev. Patricia Fears of Fellowship Baptist Church.
The vigil, led by faith leaders and community organizers, came in response to what many see as a federal overreach, particularly impacting immigrant and Black and brown communities.
“To those who are scared to leave for different reasons — I say, I’m here with you. I’m praying with you, I’m thinking of you,” said Jason Carson-Wilson, a community advocate.
For longtime activists like Jim Sweeney, 79, the moment echoes decades of protest — but feels more urgent than ever.
“It seems like I’ve been coming to a lot of demonstrations for 50 years — at 79, this one was the most important,” Sweeney said.
D.C. resident Lydia Curtis emphasized the power of collective action.
“These kinds of gatherings are so important for people to not only connect but to galvanize their power,” Curtis said. “I think [arming troops] is a license to kill, and I feel like it’s very dangerous.”
The Pentagon’s recent decision to allow federal troops in the district to carry firearms has heightened tensions in many communities, particularly among youth.
“They’re out here messing with youth because they look a certain way, dress a certain way,” said 15-year-old Kyle Washington, who described a recent encounter with federal agents in his neighborhood.
“Just shock — them running up and down the hill with guns in their hands,” Washington recalled.
Local nonprofit Guns Down Friday, which works to prevent gun violence in Southeast D.C., has shifted its focus in recent weeks to help young people prepare for interactions with law enforcement and federal agents.
“Not everyone knows everything, so it’s cool to spread the knowledge, spread the love,” said a community mentor known as Big Macky.
Washington, who participates in the group’s sessions, said the support has made a big difference.
“It makes me feel better to know people are actually out here to help us and help kids learn their rights,” he said. “To have extra support when you’re dealing with mental stress and more — it really comes in handy.”
More rallies and protests are planned across the city throughout the weekend, as residents continue to speak out and advocate for change.
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