American history is defined by civilian resistance against injustice. With enough defiance and spirit, nonviolent protests have proven more than capable of creating social and political change. Today, all fifty states are responding to current powers through the joint organization of fifty simultaneous protests through the 50501 Movement.
Rejecting the Red Revival
“Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms, and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead.”
Former President Joe Biden in his Farewell Address
Prior to Former President Biden’s Farewell Address, only two presidents (Washington and Eisenhower) had warned against emerging threats. These cautionary messages have been accurate for all three instances. Following Biden’s presidency, Donald Trump’s second presidential term has been characterized by the erasure of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. In his first hundred days in office, Trump has pardoned all defendants associated with the infamous January 6th riot, carried out mass deportations, imposed destabilizing tariffs (increasing the threat of a recession), laid off thousands of federal workers, and much more.
Reasonably, assumptions were made that Trump was at his most active during his presumptuous first hundred days. However, it appears Trump remains persistent in keeping the promises of his MAGA vision.
The Trump Administration will not be excused for its attacks on marginalized groups such as the working class, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, women, and people of color. The refusal of these communities to allow for their rights to be stripped does not lay dormant: instead, it manifests in a series of civil disobediences.
What Happened on February 5th Didn’t Stay on February 5th
From the initial protest on February 5th, 2025, success and participation for the movement has grown, allowing for more protests to take place consecutively: such as on February 17th, March 4th, April 5th, April 19th, and May 1st.
50501’s next main event takes place on June 14th, 2025. This protest is an anti-authoritarianist march backed by the No Kings Movement, and will be scattered throughout Indiana.
Interview with Ms. Nicolini
As the head of the Young Democrats Club at Herron High School, Ms. Nicolini offered thoughtful insight into the club’s values and it’s connection to the broader 50501 movement. Here’s what she had to say in response to a few key questions.
*How does the 50501 movement align with the values and goals of the Young Democrats club?* The goal of the Young Democrats club here at HHS is three-fold: engage young people to participate in democracy, educate our members on current events and legislation, and inspire others to become more politically engaged. I see a lot of similarities between our goals and the 50501 movement’s response to current events –informing members and organizing events where Americans can participate in democracy.
*What inspired you to get involved or encourage student involvement with this movement?*Our club hasn’t had a chance to get involved with the 50501 movement specifically. In years past, members have organized carpools to rallies and demonstrations, and students have engaged in the democratic process through writing their representatives and supporting the campaigns of candidates who embodied their values.
*Has your club participated in any events or initiatives related to the 50501 movement?*Students attended the rally to oppose the overturning of Roe V. Wade in 2022. Some smaller groups have also attended events at the statehouse to engage with representatives.
*What kind of impact do you think the 50501 movement is having at the local or national level?*It’s an organizing force for a lot of concerned Americans who aren’t sure where to put their energy. The visibility of their protests continues to call attention to the direct attacks we’ve seen on our Democracy in the last 5 months, and serves as a good reminder that Americans from all across the political spectrum are worried about what’s happening in the White House.
*How can high school students effectively contribute to the movement’s goals?*One of the main points I stress to our members is advocacy can start before you’re eligible to vote. You can write or call your representatives, attend protests like the ones organized by the 50501 movement, or find a candidate or cause to support with your time or donations.
*How do you incorporate the principles or topics of the 50501 movement into classroom discussions or club meetings?* Young Democrats is a student-led club. Our executive team puts together an agenda (usually focusing on current events, political campaigns, or pressing issues that impact students) and plans activities that align with our goals. Targeting student engagement is always a focus.
*What skills or lessons do you think students gain from being involved in political movements like 50501?* Collaboration, listening, advocacy. How to peacefully engage in our democracy.
*Where do you see the movement heading in the next few years, and how do you think students can shape its future?* I suppose that depends on how decisions are made by the Executive branch in the future. Americans are unsettled, and that usually leads to more civic engagement. We’re also approaching midterm elections, which will have sweeping impacts on what is currently happening. Young people are going to be the change-makers of the future –jumping into the 50501 movement now is a good way to ensure their voices will be heard and representives.”
With more opportunities on the horizon, Herron students are encouraged to stay informed, get involved, and be a part of the change they want to see.
June 14th Protests Near You
- Indianapolis: Richard G. Lugar Plaza
- Greensburg: Decatur County Courthouse
- Lafayette: Tapawingo Park
- Bloomington: Monroe County Courthouse
- Greencastle: Putnam County Courthouse
- Fort Wayne: Allen County Court Administration
- Warsaw: Warsaw Community Public Library
Leave a Reply