La Grange Group Joins Nationwide “Hands Off” Rallies

Patriotic Americans have rallied for democracy on the La Grange Square for a month before Saturday, April 5, when more than 100 of them linked up with “Hands Off” rallies from coast to coast, as well as European cities. In Austin, it was reported that the crowds were shoulder to shoulder at the State Capitol.

The poster signs carried by the La Grange rally goers reflected what the more than 1,200 rallies nationwide touted —“Hands Off” the courts, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, federal agencies, science, education, cybersecurity, and the environment. Much car honking happened in agreement as passersby saw the signs from their cars.

The crowd lined both sides of Travis Street and activated three bull horns that boomed out chants sparking answers from others across the street. During this time American flags were passed out to each person at the rally.

Overheard conversations at the rally reflected waves of pushbacks that President Trump is receiving for his treatment of our allies as enemies and for his embrace of dictators as friends. Others talked about the uncertainty of the price of goods, most of which reflect the trade conflicts that began with President Trump’s assessing record tariffs. These unexpected tariffs have been levied against trading partners where business relations have been set for years. There was also expressed concern about the stock market losing trillions of dollars in just two days, as well as losses in retirement savings accounts.

The La Grange rally attracted persons from around the county and beyond, as well as some teachers from Dallas who had planned to shop at the Antique Fair in Round Top. Instead, they came to the La Grange rally because they felt their voices being heard was more important than shopping.

Before leaving the square, the crowd gathered at the courthouse to recite the principles of our democratic country.

People who had been feeling frightened and alone said rallies made them feel less alone and more confident along with a sense of commonality.

Rallies will resume 3 p.m. April 27, the Sunday after Easter, at the southwest corner of the La Grange Square.