A wave of protests are sweeping across the United States this Presidents Day, February 17, 2025. The 50501 Movement, an organization aiming to challenge “anti-democratic and unlawful actions” by the Trump administration, have organized a series of protests across all 50 states. The protests are set to take place in multiple major cities, aligning with Presidents Day, a day traditionally meant to celebrate U.S. presidents. However, for the 50501 Movement, it serves as the perfect occasion to protest the actions of the Trump administration and its controversial policies, particularly those that have been seen as detrimental to democracy and equality. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over democracy and governance in America.
The 50501 Movement, which stands for “50 protests. 50 states. 1 movement,” is leading this nationwide series of demonstrations. It is a response to what the organizers describe as the “anti-democratic and illegal actions of the Trump administration.” This is the second such protest, following a successful initial nationwide demonstration on February 5, 2025. The group’s demands remain centered around calling for President Donald Trump’s impeachment and removal from office, as well as the reinstatement of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that had been rolled back through various executive orders.
One of the key issues driving the protests is the influence of billionaire Elon Musk, who, as part of a team called DOGE (the Department of Government Efficiency), has been criticized for wielding significant power in shaping federal policies. “We are still very much calling for the removal of Elon Musk,” says Sydney Wilson, a national press liaison for 50501 and local organizer in Pittsburgh. “We find it very concerning that there is a non-government official that has the access that he does.”
The February 5 protests were met with mixed participation, yet the 50501 Movement believes this next wave on Presidents Day could garner even more attention. Wilson hopes to see a turnout similar to or larger than the first event, which saw nearly 80 protests across 88 cities. The group has attracted substantial support on social media, with over 102,000 members on its Reddit page and more than 7,000 on Discord, amplifying their calls for action.
The protests will target the ongoing political shifts that have left many Americans concerned about the concentration of power and wealth in the hands of a few. Activists argue that the current administration has increasingly prioritized profit over the well-being of everyday people, especially marginalized communities. In addition to demanding Trump’s impeachment, the group is pushing for stronger anti-discrimination legislation, a deeper investigation into Trump’s presidential appointees—particularly those involved in Project 2025—and the complete removal of Musk from his advisory role.
A statement from the movement reads: “The current administration has clarified that it cares more about profit than people. We as a collective refuse to stand by as they continue to undermine the dignity of our communities. We reject fascism. We reject the oligarchy. We reject the idea that any person’s worth is less than another’s.”
The 50501 Movement is not tied to any political party, and its actions are being coordinated with other political organizations, including Political Revolution. Founded in 2016 following Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign, Political Revolution shares the movement’s emphasis on social justice and advocacy for marginalized groups. The 50501 Movement’s volunteer base is made up of activists who have long fought for racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and disability rights, among other causes.
The movement has received significant support from high-profile figures and organizations. Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls organization, which promotes activism and empowerment among young people, has publicly supported the protests. In Michigan, several state House Democrats participated in the February 5 protests, further fueling the growing political momentum behind the movement.
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As the 50501 Movement continues to gain traction, the group has indicated that further protests are planned for the future. “We’re going to continue to resist, and we’re going to continue to demand action,” Wilson asserts. With growing dissatisfaction over the state of U.S. politics and governance, the 50501 Movement stands as one of the most visible forces challenging the status quo in 2025.
As the protests take shape, the nation will watch closely to see how they affect the political landscape and whether they can sustain the energy needed to drive real change. With each demonstration, the collective voice of those who believe in a more equitable and just government is growing louder.
Key Demands
The protests focus on several key issues:
- Impeachment and Removal of Trump: Organizers are calling for Trump’s impeachment and removal from office.
- Investigation into Elon Musk: They demand an investigation into Elon Musk, who is overseeing the Department of Government Efficiency, citing concerns over his influence as a non-government official.
- Restoration of DEI Initiatives: The movement seeks the reinstatement of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that were rescinded through executive orders.
- Strengthening Anti-Discrimination Laws: Organizers advocate for enhanced anti-discrimination legislation.
Future Actions
The 50501 Movement plans to continue organizing protests, maintaining momentum beyond Presidents Day. Their collaboration with other activist groups, such as Political Revolution, aims to engage a broader base of activists and ensure sustained action against policies deemed harmful to democracy.
Where to Find Your Protests:
- NYC: Union Square Manhattan – Monday, February 17th at 1pm
- Washington D.C.: Capitol Reflecting Pool (Union Square) – Monday, February 17th at 12pm
- Los Angeles: NoHo Recreation Center 11430 Chandler Blvd – Monday, February 17th at 12pm
For more information on locations, visit the 50501 Movement Instagram page or search on https://events.pol-rev.com/ and https://www.mobilize.us/indivisible/
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