A small but determined group of demonstrators gathered outside Pasadena City Hall on Monday, joining a wave of protests across the country in opposition to federal budget cuts and perceived threats to public education.
The protests, part of the “Not My President’s Day” movement, focused on policies linked to President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk.
Around 20 protesters stood outside City Hall at noon, holding signs condemning government spending reductions and corporate influence. One local teacher carried a sign reading, “Fund the N.E.A., not DOGE,” a reference to the National Education Association, the country’s largest labor union, and the Department of Government Efficiency, a Trump-appointed entity created to downsize federal agencies and cut public sector jobs.
One protester displayed a sign targeting Musk’s electric vehicle company, Tesla.
More people joined the protest throughout the afternoon, holding up messages like “Don’t Destroy the U.S. or allow idiots to do it.” Many protesters expressed frustration with what they described as a reckless dismantling of vital public services.
“It seems like critical systems in the federal government are being ripped up without any oversight. And it’s causing problems already,” said a Pasadena teacher who declined to provide their name.
The Pasadena demonstration was just one of many across the country. In major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Miami, large crowds marched in opposition to federal policies they believe are harming education, social programs, and government infrastructure. Some protesters criticized Musk’s influence in government decision-making, citing his role in advising on federal spending reductions.
The “Not My President’s Day” protests were the latest in a series of nationwide demonstrations opposing policies implemented in recent years. A similar event on Feb. 5th saw thousands of people take to the streets in dozens of cities. Organizers say they plan to continue mobilizing against what they see as efforts to undermine public institutions.
For many in Pasadena, the City Hall protest was just a starting point. After their gathering, several demonstrators left to join a larger rally in downtown Los Angeles.
I meant to add – really nice photos!
I am grateful to see this coverage of what seems to be the start of an awakening among defenders of decency and democracy. I’ve been finding it difficult to get pre-notification of events, particularly local ones. Can anyone share the contact info of local organizers for future events? Thanks.