By Natalia Rueda 
A wave of protests is set to sweep the U.S. on Monday, February 17, as movements mobilize under the banner “Not My President’s Day.” across different state capitols. Ironically, the day is a federal holiday in which many people will be off of work and it is Activists across the country are preparing to voice their discontent regarding the Trump administration’s policies, particularly its efforts to consolidate governmental power.
Former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich has been vocal in rallying support for a peaceful mass mobilization, urging Americans to make their voices heard.
On social media network ‘Blue Sky’, one prominent post advocating for the protests states, “Giving up is not an option. People who CAN protest, SHOULD protest. Those who can’t should get involved in other ways by supporting protesters.”
Giving up is not an option. People who CAN protest, SHOULD protest. Those who can’t should get involved in other ways by supporting protesters, sharing information, and getting involved with their communities.
— 🖤 Lady Liberty 🖤 (@nahyatx.bsky.social) February 15, 2025 at 10:33 AM
The sentiment echoes a growing frustration with perceived governmental overreach and the sentiment that participating in protests is vital for community cohesion and resistance against political adversaries. As cities prepare for these demonstrations, participants are encouraged to gather at various locations nationwide, including a central protest at the Augusta County Courthouse.
They aim to express their collective experience with slogans like, “This is Not My President’s Day!” The protest movement also draws inspiration from historical events, with reminders of the legendary song “Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, which memorialized the tragic shooting of students by the National Guard during a protest. Activists today feel threatened by the political climate, prompting calls for urgency: “Protest while we can.”
I kind of feel like we need to protest while we can. Dunleavy wants to make it a felony to protest without a permit.
— blue-in-ak.bsky.social (@blue-in-ak.bsky.social) February 2, 2025 at 2:22 PM
Several discussions have emerged around alternative forms of protest, including boycotts and tax refusals.
The hashtag #ResistFascism has garnered traction, as protestors respond to threats against democracy and civil liberties. As the country gears up for the anticipated protests, participants remain cautiously optimistic, asserting their rights to assembly and free speech. They plan to remind those in power that “the power lies with the people,” echoing a resounding call for accountability and change.