What Democracy Sounds Like
Americans are taking to the streets to protest the gutting of federal agencies and programs millions of people depend on to maintain health, home and family. Drastic cuts to education, healthcare, national security, veterans benefits and international programs have ignited a movement to save the nation's endangered democracy.
What Democracy Sounds Like
Democracy in Danger, Franklin, Kentucky: May 1, 2025
Shouting the warning that America is in danger of losing its fundamental rights of free speech, the rule of law and due process, demonstrators took to the picturesque town square in Franklin, Kentucky to protest actions by President Donald Trump and his administration.
They were students and workers and retired professionals, all aware of the signs of an authoritarian attack on American democracy. Protestors expressed concerns about potentially drastic cuts to Social Security, education, healthcare, environmental programs and international agreements.
Some took to the streets for the first time, uplifted by the honking horns of support from passing drivers and the group enthusiasm. Others renewed political engagment that began decades ago during the Vietnam war and the civil rights movement.
Franklin, Kentucky protestors were among thousands demonstrating in cities and town across America on May Day, traditionally a time to show support for workers' rights. May Day 2025 had a broader focus with people from a wide range of ages, lifestyles and professions.
The day's protesters chanted the distress signal, "May Day, May Day" used by airplane pilots and boat captains to signal immediate danger. On this day, it was a distress signal for American democracy.