More than 70 protests are happening across New York on July 17 as part of the fifth annual John Lewis National Day of Action, known as Good Trouble Lives On.
The movement is named after the late Rep. John Lewis, a civil rights icon who encouraged Americans to get into “good trouble” in the fight for justice.
This year’s event is expected to be the largest yet, with over 1,600 protests nationwide and major anchor rallies taking place in cities like Chicago, Atlanta, St. Louis, and Los Angeles.
What are the ‘Good Trouble’ protests about?
According to organizers, the protests are a direct response to what they describe as attacks on civil and human rights under the Trump administration.
The focus of the rallies includes:
“We are facing the most brazen rollback of civil rights in generations,” say protest organizers on the Good Trouble Lives On website. “Whether you’re outraged by attacks on voting rights, the gutting of essential services, disappearances of our neighbors, or the assault on free speech — this movement is for you.”
The movement emphasizes nonviolence. Organizers are asking participants to de-escalate conflict, follow the law, and leave weapons at home — even those that are legally permitted.
Where are the ‘Good Trouble’ protests in New York?
Protests are taking place across the state. Some of the key locations include:
Finger Lakes region
Lower Hudson Valley
Map of ‘Good Trouble’ protests in New York
You can view the full national protest map and more information on local events at: goodtroublevoteraction.org.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Why are people protesting in NY today? What to know about ‘Good Trouble Lives On’ rallies
Reporting by Emily Barnes, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
