50501 Protest in Topeka, Kansas – University House Kanan

Melon – About 100 people gathered outside the Capitol of Kansas today in Topeka today to protest the initiatives of President Donald Trump, such as immigration reform, restrictions on reproductive rights, and prohibition of affirmative gender care and equal rights.

The protest was part of a greater movement in the United States today, which many protesters called #50501: 50 protests in 50 states in one day.

Protesters said they had learned about social media event, such as Facebook and Reddit.

“It’s really hard to organize a national protest, especially now,” said Maggie B., a Washburn student. “If people in any capital protest, then this is a great way to get a message.”

Maggie B. was one of the protest leaders, chanting in a megaphone in front of the crowd.

“We are currently fighting for fundamental human rights,” said Maggie B.

Many protesters expressed fear of the future after the recent Enforcement orders issued by Trump.

“I’m terrified of what’s going to happen,” Shee Adams said. “I wouldn’t want the world to be the moment I was 18 years old.”

Don Schaefer, a retired high school teacher, was there to support the cause.

“I want our democracy to continue,” Schaefer said.

Dion Blakemore accompanied Schaefer after hearing about the Facebook protest. She traveled over two hours to participate.

“We saw that people were coming, so we wanted to try to help,” said Blakemore.

Asked what her motivation is to appear today, she said that her mission is to make MPs make a change and listen to people.

Bella Waters is a junior at the University of Kansas from East Lansing, Michigan, studies journalism and history.

Emily Harster is a junior at the University of Kansas from Olaate, Kansas, studying journalism.