Hayward joins nationwide protest

More than a hundred people showed up in Hayward for a Honk and Wave rally, part of a nationwide day of protest known as the Free America Walkout.

The nationwide protest, organized in part by the Women’s March, encouraged Americans to walk out of work, school, and commerce on the one-year anniversary of President Trump’s inauguration.

With temperatures being just above zero, protesters stood along the busy intersection of Highway 63 and Highway 27 near the Moccasin Bar, also known as Democracy Corner. Drivers passing through honked in support as protesters waved signs, blew whistles, and played music. Many smiled and waved back, despite the cold temperatures.

Protestor Sara Poquette says she hasn’t missed a protest and is worried about what she sees happening at the national level.

“We are very concerned about what’s happening to our county and the loss of democracy and rights, and freedom, and the entire “obey or die” that happened with Renee Good. We want to do anything we can to help preserve the rights that people in this country deserve to have,” says Poquette.

Poquette and her son both stood on the corner holding Mexican flags. 

Another protester, Jenny, who’s worked in the area for more than 20 years, says she hopes the message from the protest reaches the wider community. 

“I just hope people are paying attention and that we’re here for our neighbors, our friends and our family, to be treated fairly and have every opportunity that this country can provide.”

The Honk and Wave rally was sponsored by Up North Engaged as part of a national movement supported by the Women’s March, No Kings and other groups.