April 11, 2025 by Ava Tatum (‘25)
Last Saturday, April 5th, the nationwide “Hands Off” protest took place in over 1000 cities. The protests were organized by environmental groups like Third Act, Reproductive Freedom for All, and the 50501 Movement. These groups advocate against the Trump Administration’s handling of social security, federal jobs, Medicaid, and more. The protest’s name comes from the idea that the administration should take their “hands off” of these departments.
There was a “Hands Off” rally in Albany, a “Honk-n-Wave” event in Glens Falls, and a protest in downtown Saratoga Springs. On Saturday, hundreds of Saratoga residents held up signs through the rain. Many protesters made their own signs, some notable phrases and remarks include “Bring Back Democracy, Bring Back Truth, Bring Back Integrity”, “Don the Con”, “Impeach Trump, Deport Elon”, and “Hands Off”.
Below are some thoughts two current Saratoga Springs High School shared after attending Saturday’s Protest:
- What inspired you to attend the rally?
- Do you plan on attending more events like this in the future?
- What advice do you have for other students who are hesitant about activism/protesting?
Sarah Pipino (‘26):
1) I’ve always been involved in protesting and political activism because from a young age my parents have taught me how to be educated about current events and have a strong moral code. I went to this rally specifically because I believe that this Trump administration has already been and will continue to be dangerous to the American people, and I wanted to do my part to help fight for them. I believe this international protest with the “Hands-Off” movement was just the beginning of people fighting back against [what I think is] injustice and I’m so grateful I could be a part of it.
2) I 100% plan on attending more events like this in the future. I like to think of myself as very patriotic, which means that I try to see the current issues in our country and work to fix them. I have no plans of stopping my involvement in peaceful protests because I want America to be the best nation it can be and I want everyone living within our borders to be able to live out their American dream, with their rights protected and their freedom guaranteed. This country can always be better, so I will do my part to help make it so.
3) The first thing I’d say to them is that I understand. It’s scary to speak up, even if you believe in the cause with all of your heart. Especially with the government doubling down on punishments against those who speak out, it can seem impossible. But now, more than ever, we need to do it. If you’re scared, then protest scared. It’s not just about the price of eggs or gas- it’s about human rights that are being taken away right before our eyes. I will also say this, though: safety comes first. I only involve myself with peaceful protests because that is what I believe will have the best outcome, both for myself and for America. Before going to a protest, do your research on the movement or organization leading it and if it could put you or someone close to you at risk, please do not go. There are subtler ways to protest, like educating yourself and your friends on current issues or reaching out to government officials in your area.
Kari Reilly (‘26):
1. There are so many things happening with our government right now that are truly disturbing to me. I am not of the voting age and have no way to make change directly, so attending protests is the least I could do.
2. I definitely do! It gave me lots of hope to see how many people were there just from this little city, and even in the gross weather. It made me feel like I have the ability to make an impact even if I couldn’t vote.
3. Before protesting, make sure to keep yourself educated on what is happening in our country. Even I can say that I am not as educated as I should be, but I make sure to only argue when I am fully aware of the situation. It is likely the events currently happening will affect someone you know, even your friends and family. It is truly scary what is happening with our government right now, and we need as many voices as we can fighting for justice. If you ever want to help inspire change in your community, there is no better time than right now.