Lots of activity
Since my last post about the April 5 “Hands Off” rallies, I’ve heard from several readers who went to events in their areas – Nashville, Indiana; Bloomington, Indiana; Columbus, Indiana; Witchita, Kansas; Stroudsburg, PA; Naples, FL; and Lisbon Portugal.
April 5, 2025
Image credit: Nancy Whiteman
Thanks to everyone who sent a note or a comment, and thanks for getting out there! Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve been doing.
April 5th – Hands Off!
Mary and I participated in the “Hands Off!” rally in Clarkston, Washington, just across the Snake River from Lewiston. The rally took place at one of the busiest intersections in the city. We spent a couple hours holding signs and waving to passersby.
April 5, 2025
Mary is over there, holding the bright green sign
Most of the folks there were older – our contemporaries. But as the event progressed, we were joined by some younger folks, a few with kids. We did an informal head count and estimated there were at least three hundred people on the corners after about 45 minutes.
There were also a couple dogs, outfitted with signs.
A number of people passed by and honked and waved. We cheered and waved back. There were also a few who flipped us off. Not a surprise.
What was interesting was the number of people who pulled up to the intersection, stopped at a red light, and simply stared ahead, not acknowledging any of the activity happening around them.
April 10 – Mock Town Hall
On the afternoon of April 10, I went to a “Mock Town Hall” rally in downtown Lewiston. It was held on the street adjacent to the local offices of our congressional delegation – Senator Mike Crapo, Senator Jim Risch, and Congressman Russ Fulcher.
Three empty chairs were set up on the street corner to represent the absent congressmen.
We had about 100 people show up from 3 to 5pm, while many people were driving home from work. Again, lots of honks and waves. Only a few fingers.
What’s next?
Another national day of protest is planned for Saturday, April 19, with over 400 events scheduled across the country. One is happening in Clarkston. I’m looking forward to being there.
What’s happening in your area?
Drop a note in the comments or send a note to mike@thecookandthewriter.com to let us know what you’ve seen and done.
Stay strong!
Questions? Suggestions?
Leave a comment below with any questions or suggestions. I always appreciate feedback.
Mike
White Rabbit photo by Victor Larracuente on Unsplash
I went to the Hands Off event in Nashville, Indiana. It was rainy and I brought along melange Pride umbrella which I shared with another retired military veteran. About 50 or 60 people on the corner by the courthouse. Karla was traveling and attended an event in Stroudsburg, PA. Bigger crowd there.
Hi Bill,
Thanks for the update. Small rallies, like the one in Nashville, inspire me in a different way from the giant marches in the big cities. In a crowd of 100,000, you can feel the palpable energy. But in a crowd of 50, you know you’re with neighbors who share your concerns.
Thanks for taking action.
Mike
Thanks for your dedication to help fight for the preservation of our democracy. I admire you and Mary for doing your part.
Thanks, Carol. It’s been pretty easy, so far. Get off the couch, grab the sign, go to the rally. Though it probably won’t stay that way. And I’ve been meeting some interesting people I might not have met otherwise.