Local protestors demand 'Hands Off!'

Residents opposed to policies of President Trump march in solidarity across nation

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Building a stronger community, one word at a time.

Literally hundreds of local residents became activists over the weekend as they marched around the Howard County Courthouse on April 5 as part of “Hands Off!” The movement drew thousands of people in cities and communities across the nation as they took to the streets to protest the administration of President Donald Trump and his actions.

Despite the light and steady rain, the line stretched completely around the courthouse as the participants marched and chanted slogans opposing the president’s unofficial “director of government efficiency” Elon Musk, the president himself, and various policies that have negatively impacted people.

The protest elicited responses from those driving or walking through downtown. Traffic slowed considerably around the square as drivers slowed to either honk in support of the protestors or to scream curses at the walkers. Local law enforcement remained in close proximity of the event to ensure things didn’t escalate into violence.

After several laps around the courthouse, the protestors gathered in front of the women’s military memorial on the northeast corner of the property to rally against the political and societal oppression the participants believe is taking place across the nation.

The gathering then migrated to the courthouse steps on the east side of the building, where several speakers addressed the crowd, encouraging resistance through non-violent means.

The turnout was a pleasant outcome for the Howard County Democratic Party, which hopes to engage those who marched in the organization’s efforts to restore balance to the political landscape in Kokomo.

"The turnout is wonderful, even with the bad weather," said local party chair Lisa Washington. "We have people who are concerned about their community and what is going on. We are ecstatic to support Operation Blue Horizon, a group of young Democrats who are concerned about their community. They put this all together, and we are so thrilled to have them.

"We are going to continue to build on this. We have gotten a lot of input. There are other people who want to come and grow this movement. We have a party meeting Tuesday (April 8). Everybody is welcome to show up at 6:30 p.m. at Inventrek (700 E. Firmin St.)."