The Peoples March
Over 300 people in a diverse coalition of groups and individuals advocating for civil rights, democracy, racial justice, immigrant rights, climate action, reproductive health, and labor union rights marched in the City of Hudson – two days before the Presidential inauguration – to send a strong message: our freedoms are inalienable and we will not allow them to be threatened. The Hudson march was one of hundreds happening across the country in a grassroots effort to galvanize opposition to the Project 2025 agenda.
“The scientific and moral imperative is clear: climate scientists have issued a clarion call to massively fast-track climate action on all fronts if we are to avert critical tipping points in the climate system,” said Michael Richardson of Third Act Upstate New York. “Today we take to the streets to amplify that call: there must be no new extraction of fossil fuels while our economy rapidly transitions to renewable energy. We have all the knowledge, tools, and financial resources to transition the nation’s economy from fossil-fuels to renewables; what is missing is political courage and political will.”
“The People’s March will be a demonstration of our collective power to advocate for and protect our fundamental rights,” said Sam Hodge, Chair of the Columbia County Democrats. “It is not about one political party or the other; it’s about our power as a people to stand up for our values, speak out against injustice, and be heard by those who would try to take our rights away.
“Indivisible Columbia NY (ICNY) was founded in 2017 to resist the Trump agenda. We are as committed as ever to safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities and anyone who doesn’t fit into the Project 2025 model of a white Christian United States of America. We believe in diversity, democracy, and decency in private and public discourse and are proud to join our allies in the People’s March.” – statement released by the ICNY Steering Committee.
“While we have made tremendous gains towards LGBTQ equality, now is the time to recommit to the challenging and uncertain work that lies ahead,” said Charlie Ferrusi, Out Hudson Co-Chair. “The imminent threats of a second Trump administration cannot be overstated, and we must come together with a strategic and multifaceted approach to protect our fundamental freedoms. OutHudson stands strong in our commitment to push back against policies that harm marginalized communities, threaten our environment, undermine democratic principles, and erode our rights. We join in solidarity with our local progressive community-based organizations and political groups to resist the dangers of Project 2025. Through collective action, advocacy, and unwavering determination, OutHudson will continue to amplify the voices of those most affected and work toward a future that reflects the best of what the Hudson Valley can be.”
“Now more than ever, we must unite as a community to protect the freedoms and rights of all people,” Chelly Hegan, President and CEO of Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood. “At Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing essential care, including abortion and gender-affirming services, to everyone who needs them. Today, we proudly stand alongside our community at the People’s March to champion abortion rights, LGBTQ+ rights, immigrant rights, climate justice, gun reform, and more. Together, we will not back down—we will continue to fight for a future where equity, dignity, and justice prevail for all.”