APPLETON — Over a month following hundreds of individuals demonstrated against President Donald Trump's speech at Congress while gathered in downtown Appleton's Houdini Plaza , a second demonstration against the Trump administration is happening today The procession is among numerous protests taking place in over 30 communities within Wisconsin and hundreds of others nationwide, as well as a rally in Washington, D.C.
Here's what to know.
What does the national Hands Off! demonstration entail?
The local protesters rallied under the national " Hands Off! ” branding created by an alliance comprising 182 entities , many of whom have traditionally aligned with progressive politics. As stated by one organization, Indivisible, Almost 500,000 individuals had registered to demonstrate in every one of the 50 states. On Saturday, a mobilization akin to the global Women's Marches took place during U.S. President Donald Trump's initial term in office.
The focus of the protests was on which national organizers? characterized As "the boldest power play in recent times." Particular attention was drawn to the impact of South African millionaire Elon Musk during Trump’s next term as president. Demonstrators targeted various policies and choices made under the Trump administration, including the firing Veteran’s Affairs workers and the deporting a man from El Salvador because of an "administrative mistake" .”
Tomorrow, over 500,000 Americans will participate in more than 1,200 demonstrations across the country. A key motivation for many attending is their awareness that rising authoritarian tendencies are drawing nearer to everyone.
Posted by Indivisible Guide On Friday, April 4th, 2025
National "Keep Away!" organizers presented the case their website’s “About” page that the government's moves equated to "a hostile takeover" orchestrated by Trump and Musk, that typical American citizens bore the brunt of these policies, and that responding to protests on Saturday was deemed fitting.
This is the time when we declare 'NO,'" it stated. "No more plundering, no more theft, no more tycoons exploiting our government as working citizens fight for survival." The message went on to say, "We will gather at state capitals, federal structures, congressional offices, and urban hubs—wherever necessary to ensure our voices are heard.
What is the planned date for the Appleton Hands Off! protest?
The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, located at 100 W. Lawrence St. in Appleton.
The narrative of this piece will be expanded upon later.
Jesse Lin was part of the reporting team.
Rebecca Loroff covers K-12 education for the USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin. She invites readers to share story ideas and comments with her. Reach out to her via email at [email protected].
The article initially appeared in the Appleton Post-Crescent. What’s the demonstration at Appleton's Houdini Plaza all about? Here’s what you should be aware of.