Hands Off protest held in Manchester

More than 100 people participated in the Hands Off protest in Manchester, Michigan, Saturday, April 5, 2024. Photo courtesy of Chris Brown.

by Marsha Chartrand

The skies were cloudy and spitting the last bit of rain at noon on Saturday, but more than 100 people gathered over the next four hours at the corner of M-52 and Main Street. The protest was part of a nation-wide protest to say “hands off,” voicing opposition to the current presidential administration’s policies.

The deep, damp chill did not deter this gathering and people continued to come with signs into the afternoon. Signs supported those in need, those of different faiths and nationalities, those with illness and disabilities, those with gender differences, and more. This group had them all covered.

Most participants were from the Manchester area, although some had joined local friends for support. One protestor in Manchester said they were anxious to participate for fear of retribution, but when they saw the peaceful and friendly crowd gathered, they were glad they came. Participants report that there was some negativity expressed, but it was minimal and most passers-by continued through without verbal or physical commentary.

The event in Manchester was not unique. Demonstrations happened in more than 1,400 locations across all 50 U.S. states, drawing an estimated 3 million participants nationwide. MLIVE reported numbers of  4,000 in Grand Rapids, and a turnout of 1,500 in Ann Arbor. The Detroit Free Press estimated there were 55 events planned across Michigan, including thousands” expected in Detroit, and “thousands” in Lansing. Even in the conservative UP, TV6 (located in Marquette) noted that there were rallies held in Marquette, Houghton, Escanaba, and Iron Mountain.

Organizers, both nationally and locally, state that more rallies may be planned in the weeks to come.

Signs that appeared at the April 5 “Hand Off” protest in Manchester. Photo courtesy of Kim Blumenstein.

Sign that appeared at the April 5 “Hand Off” protest in Manchester. Photo courtesy of Kim Blumenstein.

Sign that appeared at the April 5 “Hand Off” protest in Manchester. Photo courtesy of Kim Blumenstein.

Sign that appeared at the April 5 “Hand Off” protest in Manchester. Photo courtesy of Kim Blumenstein.

Sign that appeared at the April 5 “Hand Off” protest in Manchester. Photo courtesy of Kim Blumenstein.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.