Some 600 people marched or showed up the evening of July 17 for an upbeat rally on the nationwide John Lewis Day of Action.
The Chico event was held in concert with actions across the country honoring the late congressman from Georgia, who was a civil rights activist and coined the phrase “good trouble” referring to non-violent social justice action.
Rally moderator and Oroville pastor Kevin Thompson said the gathering was driven by the need to stand up for “access to programs we’re entitled to” and because Lewis’s “unwavering dedication was not in vain.”
Rally participants — an organizer’s count landed between 600 and 800 — came with signs protesting Trump Administration power grabs, the use of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) in sweeping immigration raids and detentions, and pronouncing advocacy of so-called “good trouble.”
The local Defenders of Democracy coalition led a march from Chico State’s Trinity Commons to the Our Hands sculpture in front of the Municipal Building downtown. A press release said it was part of the “fight back against the growing attacks on our civil and human rights.”
It was a fun event!
It was upbeat with the continual sound of the African drums, calling together our community to ‘get up stand up’ and ‘don’t give up the fight’!! A serious & spirited celebration of the continued work of John Lewis & so many more!
CC4J was proud to have a table there, along with many other people powered organizations.
Thanks to Chico Sol for covering the “Good Trouble” rally!