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Demonstrators Respond to ‘Paid Protesters’ Claim, Call for ‘Free D.C.’

September 10, 2025

Approximately 10,000 demonstrators participated in the "We Are All D.C." march, uniting various organizations protesting against federal law enforcement actions in Washington D.C., including the placement of the Metropolitan Police Department under National Guard control. Conservative critics, including President Trump and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller, have dismissed these protests as inauthentic and claimed participants are paid activists with no connection to the city. However, organizers and participants from diverse backgrounds firmly reject these accusations, emphasizing that the movement represents genuine grassroots organizing by concerned citizens fighting for democracy and justice in the nation's capital.

Who is affected

  • District of Columbia residents, particularly those in Black and Brown communities
  • People experiencing checkpoints, ICE arrests, and militarized areas
  • Family members being "profiled on their way to work"
  • Individuals being "snatched up and sent to inhumane detention centers"
  • Black citizens described as lacking safety "for generations" in D.C.
  • Diverse protesters from D.C. and surrounding communities
  • Local organizations including Free D.C., Unite Here Local 25, SEIU, and multiple others listed in the article

What action is being taken

  • Approximately 10,000 demonstrators are marching in the "We Are All D.C." march
  • Various organizations are speaking out against federal law enforcement surge and ICE arrests
  • Protesters are regularly gathering at Union Station where the National Guard is stationed
  • Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) is serving as a "gateway into congressional buildings for peaceful protesters"
  • Organizations like Flare are serving as hubs and organizers for demonstrations
  • Activists are marching from Union Station to Congress
  • Protesters from diverse backgrounds continue to rally across the District

Why it matters

  • The protests represent resistance against what activists view as federal overreach in D.C., including placing the Metropolitan Police Department under National Guard control
  • The demonstrations challenge narratives from conservative leaders who dismiss protesters as "paid" or disconnected from the community
  • The movement highlights concerns about civil liberties, constitutional rights, and democratic principles
  • The protests reflect deeper tensions around racial justice, immigration enforcement, and representation
  • The diverse participation demonstrates that these issues affect communities across racial and geographic lines
  • The movement represents a fight against what some participants describe as "white supremacy" and authoritarianism

What's next

  • Rep. Al Green believes future demonstrations will reflect broader participation from Americans
  • Organizer Rig states they will continue protests "until the military occupation of D.C. ends"
  • Activists encourage more Americans to join the movement to "protect democracy"
  • Black activists are described as "preparing" for continued struggle
  • Organizers like Sam Epps emphasize the need for sustained participation despite periodic rest

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer

Demonstrators Respond to ‘Paid Protesters’ Claim, Call for ‘Free D.C.’