Hands off protests against Trump Administration Policies
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Protesters gathered along Riverfront Parkway as part of a nationwide Hands Off! demonstration, opposing President Donald Trump’s administration and its controversial policy stances.
The “Hands Off” movement—often associated with advocating for the protection of social safety nets, international alliances, reproductive rights, and democracy itself—has gained momentum in several cities across the country.
Locally titled Hands Off! In Chattanooga, the event took place on April 5 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Ross’s Landing, located at 201 Riverfront Parkway. Dozens of residents came together to raise concerns and express their views through signs, chants, and conversation.
Participants held signs reading Protect Social Security, Boycott Tesla, and Zelenskyy Is My Hero, representing a wide range of concerns tied to domestic and foreign policy decisions made by the former administration.
“I’m most concerned about Social Security,” explained Carolyn Toussaint, a protester and retired caregiver. “I’m 76 years old. This is what I live on, besides a little bit of caregiving, and the threat that that is taken away is very scary to me—because I would lose everything I have.”
For others, the issue felt broader, touching on the country’s identity and place in the world.
“One of the biggest issues in my mind is the fact that we are basically becoming an isolationist country that is restricting people’s rights,” said protester Blake Wright. “And the fact that we’re arguing who does and does not deserve rights—of anybody—is a sign that none of us really have rights.”
Despite the demonstration’s largely anti-Trump sentiment, not everyone in attendance opposed his policies.
“I guess… look at the taxes you’re paying now under the old administration,” said Will Thomas, who offered a countering view. “What kind of taxes do you want to pay? If you’re on the edge, look at the country you live in—or go live somewhere else. I mean, we’ve got a choice. So, I just say: support the country, support the President.”
Others in the crowd advocated for a more unifying approach.
“As a focus on everything that divides us is kind of a bad thing, we should focus more on the things that unite us as people,” shared Christopher Smith, who identified himself as politically agnostic.
The protest remained peaceful, with people from all walks of life engaging in civil conversation about the nation’s future. Some passionate voices, however, challenged the legitimacy of the movement.
“Well, just look at their signs,” one protester shouted. “They say the country is falling apart, but they’re waving American flags. They really don’t know what they’re doing. They need to support the President. Support the country.”
Still, social worker Amy Boulware offered a measured perspective, emphasizing that the demonstration was not about partisanship but about shared values.
“This is about what is right and what is wrong,” she stated. “And this is about all of us.”
