The Importance of Peaceful Protest
Written by Nadia Krill
On February 5, 2025, hundreds of protesters assembled at the Connecticut Capitol building as a part of a bigger movement called 50501. Their goal was to organize 50 protests at state capitals in all 50 states during one day. The demonstrators sought to denounce the Trump administration’s executive orders and policies. Protesters were particularly concerned with executive overreach and attacks on civil rights.
A few students, including myself, went to the protest to observe what was happening and demonstrate against the changes being made by the new administration. Protesters arrived at the CT Capitol building in below freezing temperatures. Instead of gathering around the building, demonstrators faced the road between the capital and CT supreme court. People held signs covering a range of issues, from gun control to LGBTQ+ rights. The crowd chanted different sayings, including “This is what democracy looks like” and “Trans rights are human rights.” Cars beeped and waved at protesters, and news outlets took photos and videos.
In general, there tends to be apathy among students about politics. Especially in a hectic political atmosphere filled with existential dread, it is difficult to tune in and continue to pay attention to what is going on in the world. However, to have a functioning democracy, people need to continue to care even when things feel hopeless or overwhelming. By demonstrating, even if it feels inconsequential, people are able to voice their opinions. Smaller movements and actions add to political momentum, and will help create bigger demonstrations in the future with a farther reaching influence. College students have a unique opportunity to get involved in grassroots movements and reject political apathy. We have to put energy and time into the world we want to see because this is our future.
Photographs by Zoë Sepa
