Enid, OK — Oklahomans gathered outside City Hall on Saturday afternoon for a powerful demonstration in the ongoing “Hands Off” protest, a nationwide movement held in all 50 states. The protest, which aimed to voice opposition to current political and governmental actions, drew a crowd of passionate individuals standing up for democracy, healthcare, and civil rights.
The protestors were responding to a series of policies and decisions under the Trump administration, particularly the controversial actions of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). As concerns grow over the firing of federal workers, cuts to critical agencies, and the erosion of rights for marginalized communities, many protestors expressed their dissatisfaction with the state of affairs.
Diana M., one of the participants in the Oklahoma City demonstration, made her stance clear, saying, “Hands off of our democracy, hands off of our healthcare and hands off of our rights.” Her words were echoed by others in the crowd, who shared a similar frustration with the direction of the country.
Briana S., another protestor, emphasized the importance of the movement, stating, “The American people are not happy about the things that are happening here right now.” Briana added, “We’re a movement, and I think it shows that our community is actually stepping up and ready to speak up and stand together and fight for freedom.”
For many, the protest represented more than just a moment of resistance—it was a symbol of a united front, with people coming together from diverse backgrounds to defend their freedoms and demand change. Briana’s sentiment reflected a growing sense of empowerment within the community, signaling a shift towards active participation in the democratic process.
Debbie Moore, another participant, voiced her concerns about the impact of current policies, saying, “We are trying to get rid of the people that are ruining our country.” For Moore and others, the protest was a call to action against what they perceive as a threat to the nation’s democratic values. She further expressed, “Our democracy is all over the place. They are taking away rights from people that belong here just as much as we do.”
The “Hands Off” protests are not only a response to the political climate but also reflect deep-seated frustrations over the economic and social issues affecting many Americans. With widespread layoffs and firings of federal workers, along with significant funding cuts to essential government agencies, protestors are voicing their belief that these actions are harmful to the country’s most vulnerable populations.
Saturday’s protest in Oklahoma City was just one of many that took place across the country, marking a moment of solidarity in the ongoing battle to preserve rights and freedoms. As the movement continues to grow, it is clear that many Americans, including Oklahomans, are prepared to stand up and speak out against policies they see as detrimental to the nation’s well-being.
