The nationwide “Families Belong Together” protest took place in hundred of cities across the United States. Big cities such as New York and Washington, D.C. were represented, but sizable crowds also gathered in smaller towns.
And while the subject was serious, as is often the case at protests the demonstration allowed participants to get creative, as they vented their opposition to President Donald Trump’s harsh immigration policies.
Signs were also in abundance for the burgeoning “Abolish ICE” movement, which has gained traction in recent weeks.
Good protester signs at #Denver's #FamiliesBelongTogetherMarch. Good crowd, bilingual speeches. pic.twitter.com/wGzfJ2VGq6
— The OG Princess of Pizza (@QueenofTacos) June 30, 2018
Outchere protesting in the 90 degree heat in Nola. #FamiliesBelongTogetherMarch #FamiliesBelongTogether #IceisforSnoballsNotDeportations pic.twitter.com/ClNndfKFfI
— Cheryl Pochapin (@6puma) June 30, 2018
Some at the march brought attention to the plight of immigrants suffering from serious conditions while in detention. Many aren’t able to receive the treatment they need, making their confinement even more brutal:
All of the HIV+ immigrants that died under ICE detainment. Rest in power. #FamiliesBelongTogetherMarch pic.twitter.com/0tASGbrwKm
— Jason Rosenberg (@mynameisjro) June 30, 2018
The kids came with an important question. It was reported that immigrant children, some just three-years-old, have been forced to represent themselves in court:
Huntsville, AL#FamiliesBelongTogetherMarch pic.twitter.com/uNNAFK215L
— ginaw1968 (@ginawhite1968) June 30, 2018
First Lady Melania Trump’s recent choice of jacket while visiting imprisoned children sparked controversy. So of course many protest signs had something to say about it:
March and rally in Sacramento today. Big turnout! #FamiliesBelongTogther pic.twitter.com/7QtUhtxhVq
— Kathy Abraham (@rutabagasister) June 30, 2018
Grand Marais, MN – around 100 – 125 people by my count. #FamiliesBelongTogetherMarch pic.twitter.com/5gg7tuHdvy
— Bryan Hansel (@bryanhansel) June 30, 2018