Many Trump faithfuls started lining the streets of Nashville at dawn last Wednesday, just to see him speak.
The line to get in, stretched down James Robertson Parkway, around 5th Avenue North, and looped around the arena.
Most of them appeared to be of the same race. However, people of all races, backgrounds and ages also showed up that day but for a different cause.
While smaller in number, but still vocal, demonstrators also gathered to share their displeasure.
Some 2,500 people gathered outside of the auditorium to express their displeasure with the President.
Meet five young people who were amongst the 2,500 who protested against Trump’s visit to Nashville and learn their reasons why:
Bezawit Ararsa
“I protested to not only get my voice heard but to also fight against white supremacy. I wanted to look these Trump supporters in the eye and really get a feel of their hatred towards my kind. It was a baffling experience to say the least.”
Orlando Watson
“I protested because so often I have conversations with people that agree with me. I voice my opinions to those who think similarly. So for me, (it) was a chance to show those I don’t agree with that I am here and I have a voice. It was a chance for me to release frustrations, voice my thoughts and feelings and dialogue with those willing to do the same. And as Beza said it was a chance to meet face-to-face those who embody hate and show them that we are not afraid. Our love is just as strong of a moving force.”
Sage Delisser
“I protest because it is our duty to exercise our voices in this country. As a white person, it is also my responsibility to show other people that look like me who I stand with and to make it clear to my people that we don’t have to perpetuate the broken beliefs we are indoctrinated with from day one. Plus people need to mobilize, change won’t start from the top.“
Rico Vidal
“I attended the protest because I appreciate views different than my own. To be honest, I had never met any Trump supporter who supported him with sound logic. I can honestly say afterwards that fact remained the same. We were greeted with unbelievable disrespect left and right by supporters of Trump but we also witnessed love happening between folks of all walks of life. Although some moments (were) overwhelming, comedic even. I’m more than glad I was in attendance. I’m even happier that the experience was not an accurate representation of Nashville.”
Lailaa McKinney
“I protest because it’s important for me that people see and interact with the people they hate. It’s so easy these days to have a hateful opinion when you never interact with the people it could disenfranchise. I want people to see, and defend that ignorance to people who could be their neighbors, coworkers, friends (even) the person they get their coffee from every morning. If this place burns down around us, it ain’t gonna be cause I didn’t show up and show out. No one is going to feel at peace about this administration without meeting my resistance. At least not here in Nashville (laughs).”
