CUBN Columbia, S.C. — On a day when most people would be relaxing or spending time with family, thousands chose to stand for democracy, justice, and unity at the South Carolina Statehouse during the National Day of Protest. Organized by activists Blake Justice and Haley Weaver, the demonstration drew an impassioned crowd ready to resist the rising tide of fascism and unchecked power in the nation's highest office.
"We Are on the Right Side of History"
Blake Justice opened the rally with a call to action: "We are here to resist fascism. We see what's happening. Every warning sign has been checked. We've seen this coming since 2016. Now, with Elon in office, unelected and unchecked, the consequences are undeniable. We must make our voices heard and show that there is no national mandate for this agenda. Today is about saying 'No' together." "Let’s network, let’s organize, and let’s show them what true neighbors are. We are peaceful, and we are on the right side of history."
Haley Weaver echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of building community and connecting with like-minded individuals.
A Call for Love and Understanding
Matt Fulmer of the Young Democrats of the Central Midlands invoked the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Only love can do that." Fulmer stressed the importance of conversation and empathy in bridging ideological divides: "Many who support harmful policies have been misled. They may not yet know they want to defend democracy. We must reach them through listening and understanding."
A Message from Javar Juarez: Reconciliation and Courage
Javar Juarez, President of the Columbia Urban Broadcast Network and Executive Director of the South Carolina Equity PAC, delivered a powerful address that resonated with the crowd:
"I offer an apology to the followers of the MAGA movement. I am deeply sorry for how you have been misled and used. But more than an apology, I offer you love. I do not hate you; I see your pain and your struggles. You and I share a common affliction: a system that thrives on division. But let us break free from this cycle together. No politician can save us—the power is within us, the people. Let us fight hatred with love and reclaim our country together."
Juarez’s heartfelt call for empathy, grounded in his faith and family’s enduring legacy, resonated deeply with the crowd. Many approached him afterward, expressing their gratitude for a message that uplifted love, unity, and understanding—one that transcended party lines and racial divisions. His words, filled with compassion and hope, left a lasting imprint on all who heard them.
Pastor Thomas Dixon: A Prayer for Action and Unity
Rev. Thomas Dixon of Charleston, a longtime advocate for justice, offered a heartfelt prayer, urging people of all faiths to unite for the common good:
"Heavenly Father, we have become a nation that calls evil good and good evil. We have lost our way. Let us remember the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses yearning to breathe free. May we become a voice for the voiceless, fighting for healthcare, education, and justice for all."
Dixon's prayer transcended religious boundaries, inspiring a collective spirit of solidarity in the ongoing fight for equity and freedom. Charleston, South Carolina, stands as a poignant example of a community grappling with rapid transformation driven by private equity firms, corporate interests, and extreme political agendas—changes that exploit its rich culture and tourism appeal while displacing its Black residents. The historic presence of Black artisans, such as sweetgrass basket weavers and young craftspeople, is being erased from the heart of the city they helped define. Yet, Dixon remains steadfast, tirelessly advocating for justice and equality, ensuring that Charleston’s future reflects the contributions and dignity of all its people.
A National Movement Against Tyranny
The Columbia protest was part of a larger wave of demonstrations across the country, from Portland to Columbia, as Americans rejected what they see as anti-democratic actions from the highest levels of government. Signs reading "No Kings" and "No One Voted for Elon Musk" underscored the outrage over unchecked power and sweeping governmental purges.
From mass firings at crucial agencies like the FAA and IRS to attempts to seize taxpayer data, the current administration's actions have sparked alarm and defiance. Yet, as the protesters made clear, their fight is not about politics—it is about democracy, dignity, and the future of a nation.
A Rallying Cry for Unity and Hope
The National Day of Protest was more than a demonstration; it was a declaration. Those gathered in Columbia stood united against oppression and division, choosing love, courage, and community over fear and hatred.
As Javar Juarez so powerfully declared: "If we can truly love one another—not in spite of our differences, but because of them—then together, we can reclaim our country. Together, we can heal this land."
The echoes of their voices, their prayers, and their songs of justice will continue to reverberate far beyond the steps of the Statehouse. In their unity, they carried the true spirit of America: one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
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