On April 5, 2025, my wife, two of my sisters, several friends, and I participated in the “Hands Off!” protest in New York City. The event began at Bryant Park, where we gathered despite intermittent rain showers throughout the day. We met numerous individuals, including some who had traveled from as far as Canada to join the demonstration. After assembling in the park, we proceeded along Fifth Avenue past the New York Public Library with its famous lions, and we finished up our march at Madison Square Park on 23rd Street.
The “Hands Off!” protests were organized nationwide in response to recent actions by President Donald Trump’s administration and the involvement of Elon Musk, who was appointed to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). These demonstrations aimed to address concerns over policies affecting civil liberties, government restructuring, and the recent decision to apply widespread tariffs. These tariffs have tanked markets around the world.
I was struck by the resilience and commitment of those who participated. The presence of individuals from distant locations, such as our neighbors from Canada, underscored the global attention and concern regarding the current political climate in the United States and its recent global impacting actions. The news reports that there were many protests held outside of the US.
I had my Nikon Z6ii with me and shot a number of photos. Some of which I’ve shared here.
