Massive Protest in Washington, D.C. Against National Guard Deployment
WASHINGTON – On Saturday, September 6, 2025, thousands marched in Washington, D.C., expressing their discontent regarding President Donald Trump’s continued deployment of National Guard troops and increased federal law enforcement presence in the city.
The demonstration, entitled “We Are All DC,” moved along 16th Avenue NW towards the White House. This significant gathering took place shortly after heightened threats emerged from Trump, with follow-up protests expected in cities like Chicago, Boston, Baltimore, and New Orleans.
On Thursday, D.C. Attorney General filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the ongoing presence of the National Guard constitutes an illegal military occupation.
Amidst the protest, security personnel from D.C. and seven surrounding states were already in the city, with Georgia’s Governor Brian Kemp announcing the addition of 300 National Guard members and 16 support staff, making it the eighth state to contribute troops.
In a concerning development, Trump suggested deploying security personnel to Portland, Oregon, extending the reach of this militarization.
Protesters carried signs demanding an end to what they described as an occupation, with slogans like “end occupation,” “free DC,” and “put ICE out,” in reference to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s activities.
Various organizations, including labor unions, faith groups, and immigration advocates, showed up in solidarity. Gale Hansen, a 71-year-old from D.C., voiced his belief that this was an unacceptable situation. “I think we all need to recognize that what’s happening in our streets is no good. The National Guard needs to go home,” he commented.
Charlotte Stone, an 18-year-old freshman at George Washington University from Virginia Beach, expressed her frustrations through art. She held a sign featuring a caricature of Trump with a Hitler-like mustache, alongside the phrase: “I ignored what the Germans did.” She remarked on her feeling of discontent, stating, “I’m just here with my friends. It’s important to take a stand.”
The D.C. metropolitan police department indicated that overall crime had dropped by 8% over the past week.
As the protest continued, imagery likening the event to former Justice Department employee Shawn Dunn’s allegorical sandwich throw at federal agents last month was displayed, suggesting a blend of humor and frustration.
Trump’s 30-day emergency measure to federalize law enforcement in D.C. is set to conclude on September 10. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser recently announced a deal with the federal administration to maintain collaboration between local police and federal enforcement.
On the morning of the protest, Trump had posted a provocative AI-generated image referencing the Vietnam War film, “Apocalypse Now,” coupled with a cryptic message about “morning deportation.” This statement raised eyebrows, especially in light of his recent push to rename the Department of Defense the “Department of War.”
