As Trump and GOP Descend on Philadelphia, Protests Erupt In the Streets

Philadelphians are staging a series of protests against President Donald Trump's repressive agenda. (Photo: Philly We Rise/Twitter)

As Trump and GOP Descend on Philadelphia, Protests Erupt In the Streets

"If we don't get no justice, they don't get no peace!"

People have taken to the streets in response to the Republican Party's retreat in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, voicing outrage and opposition to President Donald Trump's threats to healthcare, the environment, immigration, and human rights.

"If we don't get no justice, they don't get no peace!" the crowd of hundreds chanted as they rallied downtown, where the GOP conference is taking place from Thursday to Friday.

At a Thursday morning discussion, rally, and march called "Fight for Our Lives," organized by SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania and PA Home Care Workers, healthcare workers discussed the ramifications of the GOP's plans to repeal and replace Obamacare, and the lives at stake if millions of people see their healthcare disappear. The groups then rallied near city hall, where they were joined by other local progressive organizations and unions committed to resisting Trump's right-wing agenda.

Later Thursday, as Trump arrives to speak at the convention, the coalition plans to march to the Loews Hotel, which is hosting the retreat, and protest outside.

Watch footage of the rally here:

The people protesting on the streets are not the only ones demanding answers. Republican politicians have found themselves on the defensive as the press seeks explanations for Trump's controversial statements and flurry of extreme executive orders.

And the protest is one of a series of actions against the GOP retreat. On Wednesday evening, the street in front of the Loews Hotel erupted with an impromptu "Queer Rager/Guerilla Dance Party," to protest the Republican Party's repressive stance on LGBTQ rights.

The group Philly Socialists is also planning to surround the hotel in protest at 4pm Thursday. In addition, activists have urged Philadelphians who oppose the Affordable Care Act repeal to wear black this week in solidarity with those who face losing their healthcare.

Participants are tweeting photos and videos of the ongoing actions under the hashtags #ResistanceInPhilly:

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