Similar demonstrations are planned for every Saturday in August.
By Mason Chambless
Original Air Date: July 30, 2025
Host: Dare to fight fascism. Stand up for democracy. Stop the dictatorship. Rage against the Regime. These are the calls for protest organizers hope will be echoing around the United States this Saturday as people across the nation protest the policies and actions of the Trump administration. But there is a bit of confusion. Mason Chambless has this report.
Mason Chambless: In Bradenton this Saturday, protesters will be gathering outside of the old Big Lots at 5584 Cortez Rd. W from 10 a.m. to noon. The event, which originated with the 50501 movement, is said to be hosted by Indivisible; however, the Manatee branch of the organization denied any direct involvement, saying that an unaffiliated individual is hosting the rally. Instead, the Manatee branch is focusing on planning a protest against “the terrible conditions at the Everglades Immigration Detention Camp and the complicity of local businesses in supporting additional detention camps and illegal deportations.”
Alongside the event on Saturday, other similar protests will be happening in Saint Petersburg, Tampa and Englewood as well as more across Florida and the U.S. This week’s rally will also mark the first in a series of Stand up for Democracy/Stop the Dictatorships rallies in Bradenton. The plan is to organize subsequent weekly events each Saturday throughout August.
“Rage” might sound like a strong emotion that will be expressed at the event on Saturday, but the event hosts are clear that these rallies are non-violent, and that in case any tense encounters should arise, de-escalation is expected for all participants.
Participants are told to “Bring a friend. Stay hydrated. Bring water, fans, umbrellas, chairs, music, your signs, and a big voice.”
This was Mason Chambless for WSLR News.
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