On Saturday, protesters gathered at over a dozen locations across Southern California as part of the nationwide Hands Off! rallies, which were organized to voice opposition against various policies of the Trump Administration. This wave of protests highlighted widespread discontent, particularly focusing on the influence of Elon Musk, a billionaire advisor to Trump, and his initiatives within the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The most significant gathering took place in downtown Los Angeles at Pershing Square, where demonstrators filled the streets to express their concerns. Other cities in Southern California, including Torrance, Long Beach, Santa Clarita, Santa Ana, and Riverside, also witnessed similar protests. Despite the scale of the events, the crowds remained peaceful, showcasing the unity among the participants.
While protests against the Trump administration have been a common occurrence since his inauguration in January, Saturday's events marked the most widespread demonstrations of his second term. The Hands Off! movement gained momentum, drawing attention to various issues and rallying supporters from diverse backgrounds.
In Los Angeles and other major cities across the United States, protesters took to the streets in a show of solidarity against the Trump administration's policies. Images from the event captured the energy and determination of those involved, as they marched for change. Notable photographs from the protests include striking images by Etienne Laurent (AFP via Getty Images) and Mario Tama (Getty Images), which illustrate the significant turnout and vibrant atmosphere of the rallies.
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