There were protests held in cities across the US yesterday in response to Trump’s and Elon’s actions during the first few weeks of Trump’s second term. I watched video clips of protestors in Raleigh, where I now live and in Pittsburgh, my former hometown.
Although I think protests are largely ineffective, I can still see the appeal to protesters.
It looked like people were having fun. For some groups, it looked like a party.
They got to hang out with a lot of people who shared their anger at Trump’s policies. They got to drink coffee with friends, march together, chant slogans and scream about their anger.
It was performative for some who dressed in costumes, led chants and took over the microphones. They filmed each other, answered reporters’ questions and mugged for social media clips. It was emotionally charged up.
I imagine many of the participants actually believe they are affecting change.
Who knows? Maybe I’m wrong. Perhaps these protests will make a difference.
If I was the type of person who liked crowds, yelling and demonstrating my anger in public with a bunch of similar minded people, I’d probably be right there beside them protesting.
I’m glad I’m not.
Instead, I prefer to focus on things I can control. I’ve learned that I have absolutely no ability to change politicians, government or society at large.