As a decades-long member of the League of Women Voters and a state employee for nearly two decades, I’m a strong supporter of effective, adequately funded government at all levels.
Many times on Flag Day, I’ve taken the opportunity to urge people to be involved in government so that it can work as well as possible. It includes being informed about local issues, testifying at public hearings, running for public office, and more.
Under President Trump’s second administration, I have been concerned most days about his dismantling of federal agencies that do important consumer work, firing leaders of independent agencies, appointing unqualified political supporters to head agencies and the military, defunding important consumer programs, and more.
So, I went to the state capital in Olympia, Wash., today to see what the public here has to say about the Trump administration.
The weather was nice, not too hot and not too cold. No rain. There was plenty of room on the capital grounds for thousands of people. People sat on the steps of the Legislative Building, the official name of the state Capitol building. Chairs also were set out on different parts of the grounds, which people appreciated. Me, too. I sat down for a rest before I hiked back to my car, which was parked at a friend’s house.
I estimate the crowd to number about 5,000 people.
I probably saw a dozen of my friends. There were lots of senior citizens in the crowd.
The protest was peaceful.
The signs were varied and imaginative.
Here are a some of my photos:
I do hope that the United States of America will get back on track. I fervently hope it won't take too long.
Great pictures Rita. It was amazing seeing all of the protests all over the country.
I enjoyed the rally. I was impressed with all the signs that people made. Also amazing was the good printing that everyone had.
Loved your pictures. I wasn’t able to protest, but so grateful to those who did. I plan to go to the next one in Newtown, CT where my son Patrick will be singing to the crowd. Get a little choked up just thinking about it. So proud of my country.
Thanks, Laurie. I enjoyed the rally. I didn’t go to earlier ones, but wanted to go and take photos. I wasn’t disappointed by the signs to take photos of. They were great.