Thousands of people demonstrate against Donald Trump in Washington, two days before his inauguration

Thousands of people demonstrated on Saturday January 18 in Washington against Donald Trump's policies, two days before his return to the White House. Called the People's March, this demonstration was organized by several civil rights and social justice groups, including the team behind the January 21, 2017 Women's Marches across the country the day after the billionaire's first inauguration.

Saturday, colorful signs and pink hats with cat ears (the pussy hats), in reference to the demonstrations organized eight years ago, dot the procession in the center of the American federal capital.

“I have faith in the future, even if I am afraid”

Under a light rain, Susan Dutwells, who came from Florida, in the southeast of the United States, with her daughter for the demonstration said “to be afraid” and be ” angry “ of the return of Donald Trump. “So many people vote against their own interests. I don't understand “added this 60-year-old woman. “I try to keep hope”says Carine, another 40-year-old protester who did not want to give her last name. “It feels so good to be surrounded by lots of people”she emphasizes. Coming from Arizona (South-West), this is the first time she has demonstrated in Washington, she says, while assuring that she will continue “the fight back home”. Sarah Kong, a 31-year-old psychiatrist, feels “motivated, stimulated by all these people. I have faith in the future, even if I am afraid”.

Participants in the march are demonstrating for a series of issues threatened by Donald Trump, such as access to abortion, the fight against global warming and the defense of the rights of immigrants. Other similar demonstrations are planned across the country, notably in New York.

After his victory, on November 5, 2024, against Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris, Donald Trump will take the oath of office at the Capitol on Monday noon and will become the 47^e president of the United States.

The one who is still the president-elect for two days is expected Saturday evening in Washington for a reception in one of its golf courses and a fireworks display.