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Donald J. Trump was inaugurated as President of the United States on Friday in Washington, after a contentious and divisive election that has left a rift in the nation.
As President Trump was reciting the Oath of Office, citizens across the country were marching in protest of his proposed policies and controversial rhetoric. In Denver, hundreds of demonstrators gathered this morning at Civic Center Park before marching up Broadway and through downtown Denver, ending at the Colorado State Capitol.
The group consisted of two separate marches organized on Facebook. The first, DisruptJ20 Denver, began at 8 a.m. with a goal of disrupting rush hour traffic. Another event by the same hosts will take place this evening at 6 p.m. On Facebook, organizers wrote that the march’s purpose was “for autonomous action to disrupt the flows of commerce in the city throughout inauguration day.”
The second march was organized on Facebook by Darlene Jones. More than 1,800 individuals had RSVP’d for the event as of this morning, yet it’s unclear how many were in attendance. “We call on all people of good conscience to join in disrupting the ceremonies across the nation,” the event invitation states. “If Trump is to be inaugurated at all, let it happen behind closed doors, showing the true fact of the security state Trump will preside over.”
As the protesters—mostly young and racially diverse—weaved through downtown, they chanted a few key phrases:
“My body, my choice.”
“Refugees are welcome here.”
“Not My President.”
Police officers followed along, directing traffic and ensuring that the protests were largely peaceful. Although, as the Denver Post reports, there was some conflict between marchers and a group of counter-protesters, who were wearing jackets emblazoned with “Bikers Against Radical Islam.” Officers were able to diffuse the situation.
While the bulk of the protesters had left the scene before noon, there are more events planned throughout the day and evening in response to the inauguration. And of course, Denverites can expect to see even more citizens marching downtown tomorrow during the Women’s March on Denver. Here are some happenings that you can join this weekend:
rEVOLution Launch Party, Hosted by Project VOYCE
When: Friday, 6–10 p.m.
Where: Project VOYCE, 3455 Ringsby Ct., #131
Why: “The rEVOLution Launch Party, hosted by Project VOYCE, promotes awareness, inclusivity, and understanding during the 2017 Inauguration Day. Please join us in transitioning into this new presidency with LOVE.”
When: Friday, 7–10 p.m.
Where: Summit Music Hall, 1902 Blake St.
Why: An all-ages concert from such acts as Three Grams, Allout Helter, Cheap Perfume, Screwtape, and The New Narrative
When: Friday, 7 p.m. to midnight
Where: Boulder Theater, 2032 14th St., Boulder
Why: “The People’s Inaugural Ball allows us to celebrate Inauguration Day by learning about pressing needs in our community and steps we can take to meet those needs and make a difference.” ?
When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Civic Center Park
Why: March alongside tens of thousands of citizens to protect women’s biological and reproductive health; support diverse communities of America and condemn hateful rhetoric and actions; and encourage equality and equity for all Americans.
When: Saturday, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
Where: Sloan’s Lake Tap and Burger
Why: Join other marchers and community leaders to discuss the day’s events and enjoy a few beers. They’ll be serving up Kaffeina cream ale, brewed in collaboration with Crafty Ladies Beer Club and Epic Brewing, and Making Noise: Pussy Riot Beer, created by female brewers at Goldspot Brewing. Proceeds from the sale of Making Noise benefit local nonprofits.
When: Saturday, 3:30–8 p.m.
Where: Skylark Lounge, 140 S. Broadway
Why: This no-cover concert, featuring Katie Tall, Chella Negro & The Charm, Dagger Dagger, Jane Doe, and Suzi Homewrecker, doubles as a fundraiser for Planned Parenthood.
Colorado Blue Ball: A Ball for All
When: Saturday, 6–9 p.m.
Where: Tracks Denver, 3500 Walnut St.
Why: “An evening of music, dancing, food and cash bar to celebrate each other and our commitment to be the change we collectively want to see in the world.”
