This weekend it is estimated that approximately 7 million Americans across the country took to the street to protest Donald Trump and his policies as part of the second “No Kings Day” protests. Top issues protesters cited were Trump’s attempts to stifle 1st Amendment rights, aggressive I. C. E. raids, abortion rights, and LGBTQ rights.
The queer community has faced increasing attacks from the President’s administration, especially transgender individuals. The Trump administration has banned gender-affirming care for minors, and has been pushing universities to ban transgender participation in sports, as well as block bathroom usage. The Supreme Court has also been hearing arguments against bans on conversion therapy. Human Rights Campaign Chief of Staff Jay Brown was at the No King’s rally in Washington DC, where he said:
“This president, he has a darker vision for America. One where our families are told how to parent their children. Where our doctors are forced to forgo their oaths to do no harm. Where the government is ripping families apart and hurting our people. They’re cutting billions of dollars from HIV prevention and treatment.
They’re banning our books. They’re firing teachers who use a teacher’s nickname. And they’re firing gay workers who put a Pride flag on their desk. But we’re all here because we believe in a better America. We believe in a country where kids can get a quality education free from bullying. Where love is love. Where freedom is afforded to all and not reserved for a wealthy few. That is America at its greatest. That is our America.”
