DELHI — On Saturday, April 19 at Delhi’s Courthouse Square, between 350 and 400 people gathered for the third “Hands Off!” rally, a swelling grassroots response to what organizers say is the federal government’s systematic erosion of civil liberties, environmental protections, and social safety nets. The planned event coincided with the anniversary of the start of the American Revolution.
The event marked the latest in a series of rallies sparked by recent executive orders and federal policies that organizers say threaten veterans, seniors, minority communities, and the rule of law itself.
“This is the third,” said Delaware County Democratic Committee Chair Kathleen Hayek. “It won’t be the last.”
Standing before a growing crowd waving signs, facilitator Judith Maguire spoke of the stakes.
“People recognize that we have to protect due process, the right to equality in front of the law, and protect everyone in our community,” Maguire said.
Maguire said she’s witnessed the rallies steadily grow in size and urgency — despite the event falling on a holiday weekend.
“So I think if it wasn’t a holiday weekend, our next one, I bet we’ll get even more people,” she said.
Protesters came from across the county, and from as far as neighboring counties, some carrying handwritten placards, others simply showing up to listen and lend presence to a movement organizers insist is not about partisanship — but principle. Motorists passing the rally were supportive, with horns honking, and vehicle passagers clapping and waving in support.
“These are not partisan issues,” Maguire said. “These are human rights issues. This is protecting our veterans, our seniors, our minority communities. These cuts affect everyone. And the damage done to the environment will certainly affect us here in Delaware County.”
Hayek said the group’s message to Washington is unwavering and loud.
“We’re going to continue having demonstration after demonstration,” Hayek said. “We’re going to be continuing to send our letters to the editors, calling all our representatives, every way we can think of — talking to our neighbors, holding house parties, any way, in every way we possibly can.”
“Our government is being taken away from us piece by piece by a corrupt felon,” she added, referring to recent federal actions and leadership. “And I think we’re going to make so much noise that they can’t ignore us.”
Maguire echoed that defiance. “The growing number of attendees speaks to the growing rage,” she said. “Our democracy is being dismantled piece by piece. Let it be known that it is not going unnoticed — and it will not go unchallenged.”
Organizers say a fourth rally is already in the works.
