You Showed Up: A Historic Day of Protest and Community

In bitter cold, thousands gathered, volunteers carried the day, and a movement proved it is only just beginning.

The wind was brutally cold on Saturday, and holding signs was, at times, a challenge. Attendance estimates ranged from 2,600 to 3,000 as people came and went, but one thing is certain: You showed up.

Waconia had its biggest turnout yet, with 300 participants. The signs, the costumes, the flags, and above all, the energy you brought were incredible. Thank you for showing up for democracy.

Gratitude for Volunteers

Our deepest thanks go to the amazing volunteers who made the day possible.

From those who brought drinks and treats, to the teams managing sign libraries, staffing tables, serving as medics, providing security, and greeting participants, you made a real difference.

This effort begins long before anyone arrives. People like Dan, Dave, and Charlie prepare the space by setting cones, checking for ice, and shoveling when needed. Kim brings hot water, cocoa, and treats. The sign library is set up, and everything is ready to welcome you.

This Saturday simply required a larger-scale version of that same dedication.

Notably, our medics had nothing to do; not even a bandage was needed.

The Aztec Dancers

A special thank you to the Aztec dancers. For some, this was their first time participating since ICE came into Minnesota. I am deeply grateful they felt safe enough to join us.

The brass band added a wonderful, festive energy to the day.

Many people also traveled to St. Paul to hear Bruce Springsteen, Bernie Sanders, and Jane Fonda, but I feel confident saying: Ours was the best.

The Bigger Picture

While global numbers are still being calculated, this is shaping up to be the largest protest in U.S. history. You are part of something historic, and we are not done yet.

Protesting is just one way to take action. In the coming weeks and months, we will share concrete steps you can take to continue making a difference.

A Note on Safety

I do need to share a serious update: ICE is still active in Chaska.

Last week, I was again approached and told they knew my name, where I lived, and that they intended to arrest me. Their tactics may have changed, but the threat remains.

This is not over.

Stay Informed & Take Action

Over the next week, I urge you to stay informed. Follow the news and seek out multiple sources.

Pay particular attention to issues surrounding:

• Mail service

• Mail-in voting

• Voting rights

There is also encouraging news: Joe Brothers will be running again against Jim Nash, giving us a real opportunity to flip another seat. Thank you, Joe, for stepping up.

Once again, thank you all for showing up.

And to every volunteer, this would not be possible without you.

Thank you.

Judith

Chaska Protests

Every Friday from 3:00–4:00 p.m. at the corner of Chaska Blvd. and Chestnut Street (Highway 41) [Map]

Every Saturday from 1-2 pm at the corner of Hazeltine Boulevard and Highway 41 (Chestnut) [Map]

Chanhassen Protests

Every Saturday from 10-11 am at 7700 Market Boulevard [Map] Public parking is available behind City Hall.

Waconia

Every Saturday from 11:30-12:30 pm at Highway 5 and County Road 10 in front of the Starbucks and Jersey Mike’s. [Map]

Norwood Young America

Every Sunday, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. (Line up at the bike path south of 212 by Reform Street.)

SW Protectors

Every first and third Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. It’s no cost and come and go as you like.

Please do buy something to eat or drink, though, to support our venue, which is The Bellows restaurant and it’s located at 232 Pioneer Trail in Chaska.