In a powerful display of dissent, numerous individuals gathered at the state Capitol in Lansing on Saturday to voice their concerns over several policies enacted by President Donald Trump’s administration. This demonstration was part of a broader wave of protests occurring across the nation.
Key issues driving the protests included immigration enforcement raids, reductions in federal programs, and the potential for political violence. Many attendees expressed a sense of urgency and fear about the current political climate.
Elizabeth Shokoya, a medical student from Michigan State University, was among the protesters. Reflecting on her participation in past demonstrations, she remarked on the unique atmosphere of this event. “This one feels more impending doom. Like it’s not only impacting people who are minorities. It’s impacting women. It’s impacting disabled people. It’s impacting everyone. And it feels like you need to be out here to say something because if you don’t say something, then they’re just going to take everything away from us and we’ll regret it,” Shokoya shared.
The Trump administration, however, has maintained that its policies are aimed at enhancing governmental efficiency and reestablishing order in American cities.
Coinciding with a military parade held by President Trump in Washington D.C., the Lansing protest was part of the “No Kings” rallies, which took place simultaneously in various locations. Organizer Megan Ropeta emphasized the importance of sustained activism, stating, “This is not a sprint. This is a long game so we’re in it, we’re buckling in and we’re going to be planning stuff like this for as long as it takes.”
The day’s events in Lansing included speeches, a march, and a carnival atmosphere. Attendees like Terry Link, who was accompanied by a large puppet known as “Peace Mama,” highlighted the importance of perseverance in social movements. “People get out to the streets, it starts to share. People feel like the thoughts that they have, they’re not alone. And they get strength from that. They keep pushing,” Link explained.
Demonstrations were also held in reaction to immigration raids occurring nationwide, particularly in Los Angeles, where clashes between President Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom over the deployment of U.S. Marines and the California National Guard have intensified.
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