LEWISBURG W.Va. (WVDN) – A crowd of hundreds gathered in the small town of Lewisburg on Saturday afternoon, joining the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Trump and his administration’s policies. Demonstrators from across the region assembled at the park in downtown Lewisburg, voicing their opposition to various aspects of the current administration, including policies on immigration, education, Medicare, LGBTQ+ rights and other programs.
The protest in Lewisburg was one of hundreds taking place across the country, part of a coordinated event that spanned all 50 states. These protests, organized by the group “Hands Off!,” have drawn attention to issues such as the reduction of federal workforce protections, cuts to public programs and the controversial handling of immigration reform. The group also emphasized its concern over President Trump’s ongoing efforts to dismantle existing civil rights protections, particularly those impacting transgender individuals and communities of color.
“This is not just about a protest against one person; it’s about protecting the values we hold dear, like equality, fairness, and a government that works for all of us,” said the event’s organizer.
The demonstration in Lewisburg remained peaceful throughout the day. Protesters held signs reading “Protect Our Rights,” “No More Hate” and “Hands Off Our Communities.” Residents and visitors from surrounding areas gathered in solidarity, many of them traveling to Lewisburg specifically to participate in the protest.
Various local leaders gave speeches, emphasizing the importance of grassroots activism and the need to resist policies that undermine the civil rights of vulnerable populations. A sense of unity and hope permeated the atmosphere, with many participants seeing the demonstration as a way to reaffirm their commitment to the progressive ideals they feel are under threat.
The protest in Lewisburg was not an isolated event as similar demonstrations were held in other cities across West Virginia and the broader Appalachian region, as well as major metropolitan centers across the United States.
Nationwide, the “Hands Off!” protests were aimed at pushing back against what organizers perceive as an overreach by the Trump administration. They are part of an ongoing campaign to raise awareness about issues that affect Americans. Protesters in Lewisburg and other cities argue that certain policies disproportionately harm working-class individuals and marginalized groups.
In addition to policy concerns, the protest also aimed to send a message about the importance of voting in upcoming elections. Speakers urged attendees to stay engaged in the political process, emphasizing the power of local elections in shaping national outcomes. Many participants expressed hope that their actions would inspire others to become more politically active and make their voices heard at the ballot box.
The “Hands Off!” movement, which was first organized in late 2024, aims to create a nationwide network of resistance against the Trump administration’s agenda. With rallies taking place in over a thousand locations across the U.S., organizers hope to build momentum for future activism and advocate for a more inclusive, just government.
As the demonstration concluded, attendees marched in single file to both New River Community College and the US post office in Lewisburg. Many were left with a renewed sense of determination, feeling empowered to continue their efforts beyond the protest.
The movement is expected to continue growing as President Trump’s policies remain a divisive force in American politics. For now, some folks in Lewisburg and across the country are committed to pushing back against what they see as an administration that is failing to protect the rights and freedoms of all Americans.
