By Sophie Perrins, Photo Editor
On April 5, 2025, thousands gathered in Downtown Knoxville at the intersection of Henley Street, Western Avenue, and Summit Hill Drive from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. These activists gathered for a variety of causes criticizing the Trump Administration, many focusing on healthcare, tariffs, veteran benefits, immigration and LGBTQIA+ rights. This event was organized by volunteers around the Knoxville area in association with Hands Off! Mobilizations, a movement that spanned across all 50 states and over 1,400 specific locations. Canada, London and Paris also participated in this effort to fight fascism.
Hands Off’s website outlines the movement’s objectives, stating:
“This mass mobilization day is our message to the world that we do not consent to the destruction of our government and our economy for the benefit of Trump and his billionaire allies. Alongside Americans across the country, we are marching, rallying, and protesting to demand a stop the chaos and build an opposition movement against the looting of our country. A core principle behind all Hands Off! events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.”
Knoxville’s turnout for the nationwide event was spirited, but entirely peaceful with no counter-protesters. I prepared for the protest by turning off biometrics on my phone, and wearing long sleeves, comfortable shoes and a face covering. Thankfully, the event went smoothly with no violence.
Many participants were first-time protesters, and the majority were white adults/seniors. There is a conversation to be had about the contrast between the way police have responded to people of color peacefully protesting, compared to the response – or lack thereof – on April 5. Black people have carried the weight of initiating progress for far too long and we can’t forget those who lost their lives striving for equal rights.
A new generation has been reminded of the power that protesting has and the flaws in our correctional system through bonding together as people seek justice for Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Tamir Rice, Walter Scott, Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, Stephon Clark, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. While a protest resulting in no incidents of violence or injury is of foremost importance and a victory for activists, every protest carries the weight and history of those that came before. Historical and contemporary instances of violence perpetrated by police during demonstrations influences every protest – even those that end peacefully.
Historically speaking, protests are over twice as likely to make a real difference in their community if 3.5% or more of the local population participates. The event organizers claim they had around 3,000 people sign up in advance and estimated close to 10,000 in total, exceeding the 3.5% threshold.
Hands Off! Is not over yet. They have organized additional protests in the Knoxville area targeting student rights and education. Building a community with resilience and resistance is more important now than ever, and I have to believe that together change can be made.
