Slideshow: The Gorge joins national Hands Off! protest events

“We are gathering here and across the nation because our country is in a constitutional crisis and our democracy is at stake,” said Becky Miles of CGWAN. “Our institutions are being dismantled, our relationships with our longtime allies are being destroyed, and financial stability across the world will have dire impacts on everyone. Our only remaining guardrails are the courts, which are being threatened, and the force of the people in a unified resistance. It is time to rise up and defend our human and civil rights and the future of our democracy.”

The protest began in the green area across from pFriem at the Hood River waterfront. After a short rally, participants began walking across the Second Street Overpass towards Overlook Memorial Park’s fish fountain. There were so many in attendance that 45 minutes after the march began, people were still waiting to join the walk to the fountain.

There was a counterprotest consisting of fewer than 10 people.

“It is vitally important for us to come together right now in our communities and stand up for each other and our most basic human rights, every day and in every way,” said Amber Rose of HRLN. “Families belong together, and our social services must remain accessible to everyone. Trans folks, immigrants, queer folks, and folks living with disabilities are all welcome here and such an integral part of our community! The beautiful people of the Columbia River Gorge say, ‘Hands off our people, our resources and our rights!’"