Protesters Take to the Streets in Austin to Oppose Trump’s Policies

Monday afternoon, the protest began with a march from Congress Avenue to the Texas Capitol, where people spoke out against Trump's recent executive orders. A lot of protesters were worried that he would undo diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, change immigration rules, and cut the government budget.

India Grace was one of the protesters. She said that the event was a strong statement against the Trump administration's concentration of power. "We’re here to remind the government that this is a democracy, not a monarchy," she stated.

The 19-year-old Zoë from San Antonio came to the protest with a sign that said, "No Kings, No Tyrants." "We refuse to stand by while Trump and his allies take away freedoms," she said, stressing the importance of protecting democracy and human rights.

The streets were filled with chants of "No Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA!" as protesters held signs calling for women's rights, protections for immigrants, and money for public health. Protesters also didn't like that millionaire Elon Musk was chosen to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency. They said it was an attempt to privatize public services.

The 50501 movement, which has set up similar protests all over the country, wants to continue fighting Trump's policies for a long time. Organizers in Texas promised to continue working to prepare people for the midterm elections in 2026.

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