50501 Protest Held in Downtown Framingham

FRAMINGHAM - About 100 citizens gathered in front of the Memorial Building in downtown Framingham on Tuesday, March 4, to carry out a protest against President Donald Trump and actions taken at the federal level.

The protesters were part of the nationwide 50501 movement. 50501 is shorthand for “50 protests, 50 states, one day,” as a series of similar assemblies have been held across the nation in recent weeks. Leaders of the movement say their goal is to contest what they c breaches of power by Trump and his administration.

Local protestors on Tuesday carried signs and chanted criticisms of several decisions and executive orders—including ongoing layoffs and job cuts at the federal level, cuts to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and billionaire Elon Musk’s involvement in the government. Citizens also expressed support for Ukraine amid their ongoing war with Russia.

District 7 City Council member Leora Mallach was one of multiple speakers on the steps of the Memorial Building, as she urged attendees to get involved directly with the local civic process.

“We need to hear your stories. You need to share your stories, and you need to start here in Framingham,” Mallach said on Tuesday.

“Know who your neighbors are so you can support them. Know who your elected representatives are on a local level so that you can support them…Together, we have a tremendous amount of power.”