EL PASO — Hundreds of El Paso residents gathered at San Jacinto Plaza this morning as part of a nationwide “Rise Up” rally, protesting recent policy decisions by the Trump administration. Demonstrators voiced concerns over issues such as immigration, education, and LGBTQ rights.
Rachel Aguilar, a protestor, emphasized the importance of participation, saying, “I think it’s important that we all participate in these protests because of the horrible things that are happening to our democracy and we have to stand up and speak out and not be fearful to stand up and speak out.”
Participants expressed alarm over what they described as attacks on voting rights, education, immigration protections, and healthcare access. Many worry that vulnerable communities are being marginalized.
Kayla Eulloqui, another protestor, highlighted the fear within immigrant communities, stating, “There’s a lot of people right now who cannot speak for themselves because they’re scared because they can because whenever they take one step out of their homes they’re going to probably be detained and deported.”
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The rally featured speeches from advocates representing communities such as people with disabilities, labor groups, and the LGBTQ+ community. Organizers also provided voter registration and volunteer opportunities.
However, El Paso County GOP Chairman Michael Aboud criticized the protests, arguing that they misrepresent the administration’s efforts. “What these protesters are saying is they want criminal gang members to come to the USA and to stay here. What kind of silly thought process is being used?” he said in a statement.
El Paso County GOP Chairman Michael Aboud on “Rise Up” protest: “I don’t think these protesters care what the issues are or that they are on the wrong side of these issues…Why didn’t these groups protest Presidents Bill Clinton or Barack Obama when they said they were implementing stricter Border Crossing rules and laws.
“Essentially, what these protesters are saying is that they want criminal gang members to come to the USA and to stay here. What kind of silly thought process is being used?”
Despite differing opinions, protestors like Emilio Chaparro believe the stakes are high.
“So I decided to participate because I feel like it’s a very, very tumultuous time right now. It’s a very dangerous time for everyone involved, for every citizen of the country, even if you don’t like it, even if you think he’s in your side, he’s not,” Chaparro said.