Hundreds of passionate individuals gathered in Westwood to express their discontent with President Trump and Elon Musk’s actions. The protest was notably attended by Jesse Ugalde, a Vietnam War veteran, who relies on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for healthcare. Upon entering the VA building, Ugalde was shocked to see staff members leaving. This prompted him to join the protest against the government’s plans to reduce federal resources, including significant staff cuts at the VA and other agencies.
The protest, which took place outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Westwood, united Angelenos and residents from across Southern California in a powerful display of opposition. The participants marched towards the federal building, voicing their concerns about government cuts and the perceived constitutional violations.
One of the key figures at the protest, Representative Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles), captivated the crowd with her strong words against Trump and Musk’s actions. Musk’s advisory team, known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been making waves with massive layoffs, spending freezes, and agency shutdowns. Musk’s controversial stance on government spending as a threat to the nation’s future has sparked outrage among protesters.
Shaun Law-Bowman, a former public school teacher turned administrator, expressed her dismay at Trump’s plan to shutter the Department of Education. As a former special education administrator, Law-Bowman highlighted the vital role federal funds play in supporting children with special needs. The looming cuts in education funding have raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable students.
The protest also shed light on the case of Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University student and pro-Palestinian activist who is currently detained in immigration custody. Khalil’s arrest, based on allegations of supporting Hamas, has sparked outrage and calls for justice. Many protesters saw the demonstration as a way to fight back against injustice and protect individuals like Khalil from unfair treatment.
Elizabeth Gietema, a 28-year-old participant in the protest, emphasized the historical significance of public demonstrations in driving social change. Drawing parallels to the civil rights movements of the 1960s, Gietema highlighted the importance of grassroots activism in shaping national policies and fostering justice.
The protest in Westwood served as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action and the enduring spirit of resistance in the face of adversity. As the crowd dispersed, their voices echoed with a shared determination to hold leaders accountable and protect the rights of all individuals in society. The protest was a testament to the resilience and unity of communities coming together to fight for a better future for all.
