People's March in Alameda among several across Bay Area

Across the country, thousands of people participated in what’s being called the People’s March, ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s second inauguration.

People of all ages gathered at the steps of Alameda City Hall for a variety of causes. Signs read "We Won’t Go Back" and "Politics Out of Women’s Healthcare."

Carol Graham of Newark said she felt empowered at the People’s March. She included a photo of her grandchildren on her poster, stating her inspiration for marching. 

"We need to stand up against the loss of our possible democracy," she said. "Since the '70s, I’ve marched for equal rights, for women’s right to choose, abortion rights, and equality."

The Women's March has been rebranded as the People’s March to appeal to a broader audience. People showed up to rally for causes they believe are under threat from the incoming Trump administration, including abortion rights, LGBTQ rights, and climate change.

"A lot of rage, I think, about what’s happening, but I also really want to give people hope," said organizer Cindy Pile of Alameda. "It’s part of the national and sometimes international Women’s March, but they clearly changed the title this year because so many people are being affected—from immigrants to trans youth to women."

Elliott Mattice brought his family, including his two children.

"I think everything we’re seeing is being stripped away. It’s just really important to me, being a father to young children who are LGBT-identifying, having a wife who is a minority. It’s all around us, and I want to be part of that, support their journeys," he said. 

From City Hall, hundreds marched to the South Shore Shopping Center.

"Bringing our voices together today is important, and also what we say is what you do tomorrow is crucial. So we hope that people will stay engaged, will stay in the fight, and stand up for democracy," said Mary Claire Blakeman-Neuman, Chair of All Rise Alameda. 

It's a grassroots initiative with a progressive political platform, and one of several groups represented.

"Without community, you can’t build or retain democracy. Right now, I’m thinking about my dad, who was a World War II hero, and thinking about what he would do in a situation like this. At the very least, he would stand up and be counted," said David Teeters. 

AlamedaDonald J. TrumpEquity and Inclusion