Hands Off! In D.C.

George Alexander’s Reflections

There were many unknowns before the day of the Hands Off! protest, however, the collaborative planning and teamwork between Kendal and Crosslands was invaluable in making the day a success. A session to go over logistics and safety issues, and a detailed spreadsheet of all the participants (Crosslands and Kendal residents, and young Friends from Kennett and Westtown School), proved critically important for overall logistics and in dealing with a medical emergency that occurred while in D.C.

George relates that his primary purpose in going to Washington was to be counted. He and his group stayed off to one side where they could see tens of thousands gathered around the Washington monument, but could neither see the stage nor hear the speakers, and that was how he wanted it. There were always people moving about the fringes, however, and he enjoyed watching them and their many and varied signs. A particular favorite: a group dressed as billionaires, one of whom carried a sign that read “DON’T BOTHER ME! I’M EATING CAKE!”

One of the concerns George had prior to the protest was the risk of possible violent counter-demonstrations. Fortunately, there were none, and he found the “subtle” Capital Police presence reassuring. He had planned for the possibility of rain and mud, even buying a new pair of comfortable shoes, but the weather stayed dry and relatively mild. And, although he had worried that the logistics of being dropped off and picked up might prove problematic, in fact the bus was able to get within about five blocks of where they needed to be without getting enmeshed in traffic. The long waits occurred getting into and out of Washington.

In summary, George says he is likely to do national protests in the future, although that remains to be seen. Meanwhile, after numerous nights lying awake worrying, he has finally been able to get a good night’s sleep.

Chenda Davison