As the “Hands Off! National Day of Action” approaches on April 5, 2025, protesters across the United States are organizing to voice concerns about the Trump administration’s policies and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Maryland residents will have multiple opportunities to participate in these demonstrations, with events planned in Salisbury, Ocean City, and Hagerstown. These gatherings aim to address various issues from Social Security to environmental protections, bringing together a diverse coalition of concerned citizens.
Nationwide mobilization against Trump and DOGE initiatives
The upcoming protests represent a significant nationwide effort with over 1,000 events scheduled across the country. These demonstrations have been organized by a coalition exceeding 150 grassroots organizations and progressive groups, including the 50501 Movement, Indivisible, the League of Women Voters, and the National Education Association.
Protesters have specifically targeted the policies of former President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency led by Elon Musk. Organizers describe these actions as “the most brazen power grab in modern history,” expressing concerns about what they view as an “all-out assault on our government, our economy, and our basic rights.”
The protests come in response to efforts by Trump and Musk to drastically reduce federal spending and the federal workforce. While supporters of these cuts argue they’re necessary to address the nation’s $36 trillion debt, critics maintain they threaten crucial services and protections for everyday Americans.
Key issues being highlighted during the protests include:
- Social Security and Medicare protections
- DOGE’s impact on government services
- Veterans’ services preservation
- Environmental safeguards for clean air and public lands
- Healthcare access including Medicaid and abortion rights
- Consumer protections and personal data security
- LGBTQ+ and immigrant rights
Organizers have emphasized the importance of maintaining nonviolent demonstrations throughout all protest locations, encouraging participants to express their concerns peacefully while making their voices heard.
Salisbury protest details: Location, timing and accessibility
The Salisbury demonstration will take place at Salisbury City Park on April 5, running from noon until 3 p.m. Participants are encouraged to gather at the intersection of Snow Hill Road and East Main Street to begin the event. This location has been selected for its visibility and adequate space to accommodate protestors while ensuring safety.
Parking options include spaces available along the park and in surrounding areas. The Salisbury Mayor clashes with City Council President over development and parking plans have not affected the availability of parking for this event, though attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure convenient spots.
Event organizers have made special arrangements for accessibility, with designated seating areas marked along the roadway for those who need to rest during the demonstration. The location provides ample space for crowds to gather with signs and materials.
Participants are encouraged to bring water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear as the event will last several hours during midday. Signs and banners focusing on the protest themes are welcome, with many participants expected to highlight specific concerns about DOGE’s impact on local services.
| Location | Date | Time | Meeting Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salisbury | April 5, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | City Park (Snow Hill Rd & E Main St) |
| Ocean City | April 5, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 801 S. Boardwalk (near Inlet) |
| Hagerstown | April 5, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Public Square (Downtown) |
Ocean City and Hagerstown gathering information
For those residing in or near Ocean City, a protest will take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at 801 S. Boardwalk, near the Inlet. This strategic location offers high visibility along the popular tourist area, allowing demonstrators to reach both local residents and visitors. The boardwalk setting provides accessible pathways and open spaces suitable for gathering.
In Hagerstown, protesters will assemble at the Public Square downtown from noon until 2 p.m. This central location serves as a traditional gathering spot for community events and public demonstrations, offering good visibility and accessibility for participants coming from different parts of the city.
Both Ocean City and Hagerstown protests follow the nationwide pattern of early afternoon start times, with most “Hands Off!” events beginning between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. and concluding by 4 p.m. at the latest. This timing allows for maximum participation while avoiding evening transportation challenges.
Organizers have provided the following numbered recommendations for all protest participants:
- Arrive 15-30 minutes before the official start time
- Bring weather-appropriate clothing and hydration
- Consider carpooling to reduce parking congestion
- Follow all instructions from protest organizers and local authorities
- Maintain a peaceful and respectful demeanor throughout the event
The broader impact of Trump-DOGE protests
These Maryland protests represent just a small portion of the nationwide movement occurring on April 5. The demonstrations reflect growing concerns about potential changes to government services that many citizens rely upon daily. While Trump and Musk have positioned DOGE as necessary for fiscal responsibility, critics argue the cuts threaten essential programs.
The breadth of participating organizations demonstrates the diverse coalition forming around these concerns. From educational associations to women’s rights groups, the protest movement brings together Americans from different backgrounds united by concerns about government efficiency measures that might eliminate needed services.
The April 5 protests mark a significant moment of civic engagement as citizens exercise their right to peaceful assembly and free speech. Whether the demonstrations will influence policy decisions remains to be seen, but they certainly highlight the passionate perspectives many Americans hold regarding government services and fiscal priorities.
For those unable to attend in person, organizers have suggested alternative ways to show support, including social media participation using designated hashtags and contacting elected representatives directly to express concerns about DOGE initiatives and their potential impacts on essential services.
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