ORLANDO, Fla. – Thousands swarmed downtown Orlando Saturday as part of a nationwide day of defiance against President Donald Trump.
The “No Kings” protest spanned several hours at City Hall Plaza and spilled into the streets, which forced a shutdown of Orange Avenue.
Amy Blakely lives in Orlando and said it was important to speak out against policies from the Trump administration.
“Encouraging individuals to voice their opinions. Think independently, recognize that we possess rights, and have the ability to safeguard both our rights and those of others,” Blakely stated.
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While the protestors gathered to speak out on a number of issues, immigration was one of the most prevalent.
“The stringent measures on immigration. The erosion of due process is critically concerning,” Jefferson Crutchfield remarked. “Absent due process, we face an authoritarian rule, which deviates from how America ought to be.”
Democrat State Representative Anna Eskamani attended the rally and said she was inspired by the turnout.
“Their passion for public education. Their commitment to diversity. Their advocacy for funding social programs like Medicaid and food stamps. Witnessing this inspiring crowd is truly motivational,” Eskamani commented.
There were a few Trump supporters who clashed with other rally attendees, but the protest remained peaceful.
With the protest blocking Orange Avenue at one point, LYNX issued an alert for a service disruption to its LYMMO Orange and Grapefruit lines.
“We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding as we navigate around the affected area,” the alert stated.
The “No Kings” website stated that these protests — with nearly 2,000 scheduled worldwide — seek to draw attention away from a military parade happening Saturday evening in Washington D.C. for the Army’s 250th anniversary, which happens to also be the president’s 79th birthday.
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