Demonstrators march to oppose President Trump’s federal takeover and support D.C. statehood.
WASHINGTON — Demonstrations continue in Washington, D.C. in response to President Donald Trump’s federal takeover of the city.
The Long Live GoGo Foundation and the D.C. Against Trump Coalition (DCAT) hosted a march and protest on Saturday. Dozens of people marched from U Street, down 14th Street, to the Sylvan Theater at the National Mall to the beat of GoGo music.
Ty Hobson-Powell said he has lost track of how many protests he has attended since the president announced the federal takeover of the Metro Police Department more than two weeks ago.
“We’re going to keep going every single day. I mean, just being outside and choosing to be free, choosing to push back is a protest…in itself,” said Powell.
Powell said they are protesting to convince Congress not to approve the takeover to extend past 30 days or continue into other cities.
“Today it’s my backyard, but tomorrow it’s yours. And making sure to stop it while it’s here,” said Powell.
He said the other part of this fight is for D.C. to gain statehood.
“D.C. deserves to have a right to speak to its own issues. We are surrounded by a democracy we can’t participate in. We have all the obligations of Americans, but not the same rights.”
D.C. Councilmember At-Large Robert White agrees. He said this is the moment to push for D.C. to have a voice in Congress.
“D.C. as a state means two Democratic Senators, and a Democrat in the House, protecting democracy,” said White. “So, whether you’re a Democrat or a Republican, if you are on board for protecting this nation and democracy, then you have to support D.C. statehood right now.”
Despite Mayor Muriel Bowser saying the takeover has brought down crime in the district earlier in the week, White said he and other council members do not support it.
“I think we need to keep the message from city leaders consistent and clear. This is not about public safety. This is not a welcome occupation. And it will harm not only D.C., but the rest of the country,” she said.
As people held their signs and gathered around the stage to listen to live GoGo music, White said the event was representative of D.C.’s identity.
“This is diverse. It is peaceful. That is what D.C. is. It’s families. It’s everyday people. But we will stand up when you push us against a wall, and the president has done that,” said Powell.
Protestors said they will continue to demonstrate until the federal takeover is over.