Watch: Anti-Trump protesters gather in New York, other US cities

Thousands of Americans gathered in cities and towns nationwide on April 19 to protest US President Donald Trump’s policies. The demonstrations, which coincide with the anniversary of the American Revolutionary War’s opening battles in 1775, carried a mix of civic resistance and historical symbolism.

The events ranged from large marches in major cities to quieter community actions like food drives, teach-ins, and volunteer work. In Manhattan, protesters marched from the New York Public Library toward Central Park, chanting, “No fear, no hate, no ICE in our state,” as they passed Trump Tower.

What’s Fuelling The Protests

Demonstrators in front of the White House raised similar concerns about the country’s direction and the protection of civil liberties. They expressed concerns about the country’s democratic ideals under the Trump administration.

Organisers say the protests are a response to what they see as ongoing civil rights violations linked to Trump-era policies. These include efforts to deport large numbers of immigrants, significant cuts to the federal workforce, and attempts to weaken government agencies.

Some protesters also targeted figures they see as enablers of these policies, including Tesla chief Elon Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump administration.

Outside several Tesla dealerships, protesters drew attention to Musk’s influence in government downsizing efforts while maintaining vast private power and wealth.

In Massachusetts, the spirit of the Revolution was invoked at a reenactment of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Among the crowd was Thomas Bassford, an 80-year-old retired mason who traveled from Maine to witness the event. “Americans today are under attack from their own government,” he said. “It’s time we stand up like our ancestors did.”

The protests build on momentum from earlier demonstrations, including the recent “Hands Off” rallies that drew thousands across the US.