To the editor:

Sunday was a beautiful day in Lawrence. At noon we went to what has become a weekly protest at Ninth and Mass. I was expecting maybe 30 people standing on the sidewalk by the US Bank building. What we found was all four corners full of demonstrators. People were there on serious business. They were angry, but spirits were high and there was conversation, some singing and chanting, cheers for the many drivers who honked in support (boos for the Cybertruck). There was a sea of handmade signs.

All this reminded me of the years of protests against the war in Iraq. A significant difference was in the focus of the protests. Previously we demanded peace now, end the war. On this Sunday many specific issues were expressed on the signs: Thank you, federal workers; I’ve seen better cabinets at IKEA; Save democracy; Musk = ignorance and cruelty; Hands off Haskell; Don’t abandon Ukraine.

The theme, of course, was a rejection of many of the actions of the president and his ham-fisted henchman.

Protests like this are going on elsewhere in Kansas and all over the country. What’s the point? To make clear that people are outraged with Trump’s actions. To tell our fellow citizens that they are not alone in their frustration and anxiety. To demand our congressional delegation stand up for fairness and democracy. To encourage everyone to speak out for what they want. And, yes, being a part of that group felt good!

Joe Douglas,

Lawrence