February 12, 2025
Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief
At approximately noon Wednesday, Feb. 5, hundreds of protesters lined up on both sides of Center Street north of the Oregon State Capitol building in defiance of President Trump, the deportation of illegal immigrants, Project 2025, Palestine’s destruction and Elon Musk. Oregonians came together for the 50501 movement, calling for 50 protests in 50 states in one day.
Many boasted signs and flags in respect to a variety of issues surfacing in America. Various chants rose above car horns blasting from supporters driving past: “This is what democracy looks like,” “We’re not going back,” “Hey, hey, ho, ho, Elon Musk has got to go,” “Be loud, be clear, immigrants are welcome here” and “Free, free, free Palestine.”
“Today I’m here in solidarity with all working class people … we are facing — this has been an issue since forever — but right now, we’re at the precipice of some serious change,” said one protestor. “It’s important for people to show up, but there are people who are physically disabled who can’t be here, and I’m here representing my friends who can’t come out and be in the streets, but they’re also an integral part of our movement. We all matter.”
One woman — @theladyofportland on TikTok — was seen live streaming from atop her car, standing over the crowd. “I’m here to deport Musk and impeach Trump,” she said. “(I’m streaming because) I have a lot of followers. Because we’re at a protest, the biggest protest since Black Lives Matter — it’s even bigger than Portland’s (protest.)”
Multiple American flags flew, alongside various Pride flags and transgender flags. Some signs referenced educational concerns alongside reproductive rights.
According to the 50501 movement, more than 60 protests across 40 states have been arranged and turnout has amassed 72,000 participants nationwide.
Fourth-year Western student Desiree Hite, who attended the protest, stated, “Everybody matters. Everybody’s equal. Everybody deserves to live here and be here.”
Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu
