Editor's note: This article has been updated since publication to include accurate information concerning Maryland local Kilmar Abrego Garcia's citizenship.
The intersection in front of the Federal Building in downtown Bellingham filled up with protestors on April 19 at noon as part of the second “Hands Off!” protest Bellingham has seen in 14 days.
“It’s our civic duty to protest what’s going on,” said Bree Ramirez, a community member who attended to voice concern. “The deportation of American citizens is horrifying.”
These deportations, such as Maryland local Kilmar Abrego Garcia — who was granted withholding of removal in 2019 and has yet to be returned to the United States after being deported to El Salvador’s Terrorist Confinement Center on false charges in 2025 — are one of the many reasons Bellingham citizens turned up to protest.
This protest is part of 50501, or “50 states, 50 protests, 1 day,” a nationwide grassroots movement opposed to the Trump administration and Project 2025 agenda.
Protestors raised signs with slogans reading “No Trump, No KKK, No Fascist U.S.A.,” “Trump: Our #1 ‘Homegrown Criminal’ 34 Felony Convictions Don’t Lie!,” “Protect Our Vote” and “No War But Class War,” as drivers honked in agreement while passing by.
“Human rights are not human rights if they can be taken away,” said Ollie Lynch, who wore a transgender pride flag as a cape. “We’re all on the line. Silence is compliance.”
The crowd was far from silent, with chants of “Lock him up!,” “No kings here! Protect our vote” and “If you’re embarrassed and irate, clap your hands,” heard through the crowded intersection.
As of April 19, the 50501 movement is ongoing, with plans to continue protests in the coming months.
“It’s a matter of life and death,” said Norm Allen, regarding the stakes of the protest. “We’re losing our freedom. We’re losing control.”
Jae Ranney (they/them) is a second-year journalism major and city news reporter for The Front this quarter, having previously worked in campus news. When they're not chasing a lede or hounding you for a quote, they enjoy playing guitar, banjo, and drumming in a few local bands. You can reach them at jaeranney.thefront@gmail.com.
