Over 1,000 people protested in Lexington’s Courthouse Plaza for the “Hands Off” movement held throughout the United States, against Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

On Saturday, April 5, over 1,3000 rallies occurred, coming together in their opposition against the Trump administration, according to NPR.

According to the “Hands Off” mobilize website, the rally occurred on mass mobilization day to send out the message that the organization does not consent to the “destruction of our government and our economy for the benefit of Trump and his billionaire allies.”

Each rally’s common message was against the Trump administration and Elon Musk, but each protest had its own focus to be part of its overarching goal of the “Hands Off” movement fighting for democracy, according to USAToday.

“This is what unity looks like,” the crowd chanted as they started the rally’s list of events, including speakers and musical demonstrations.

Social studies teacher at Fayette County public schools, Christy Cartner, spoke at the event, saying educators and students are being negatively impacted by the Trump administration.

Cartner said she had difficulties explaining key roles in the federal government to her students  as well as finding examples that “embodied the rule of law, checks and balances, and separation of power.”

Cartner continued and said her students would ask her questions she had difficulties answering regarding roles in government.

“I responded by complimenting their thoughtful questions and being honest about the fact that I don’t know,” Cartner said.

Cartner said she wants her students to witness the principles of the United States “exemplified by the actions of our leaders.”

Cartner continued her speech with the discussion of how the Trump administration could impact education for both students and educators.

“The hypocrisy of our government is testing my integrity as a teacher,” Cartner said. “How can I teach about the separation of powers when our representatives allow the executive branch to disregard the constitutional powers of Congress over budget appropriations, federal programs and tariff policies?”

President of the American Federation of Teachers, Sarah Fightmaster Barley, said Kentucky schools are going to be heavily affected by funding cuts to public education.

Kentucky receives more than $1.4 billion annually in federal funding in Fayette County alone, Fightmaster Barley said.

According to the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, 16% of this budget is allocated from federal funding.

This is equivalent to $29.7 million or 217 educator positions, and if cut, the district could risk losing this money.

State Rep. for House District 93, Adrielle Camuel, spoke to protestors about challenges Kentuckians faced regarding healthcare access and the need for government services.

“We have 76 counties that don’t have an OBGYN. More than half of our counties don’t have a pediatrician,” Camuel said. “We are watching our rights be eroded.”

Camuel said political issues aren’t just happening in D.C., but in Frankfort as well with the state legislature.

“It is not about the ‘me’ in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, it is about the ‘we,’” Camuel said.

Speakers continued throughout the rally, discussing a variety of topics including healthcare, economics, women’s rights and military rights.

Cathy Cobart, a Shelbyville native, said she came to Saturday’s rally to protect democracy.

Cobart said she has been singing the same chants sung at the rally since she was a teenager “rallying against nukes” in the ‘70s.

“Our democracy is worth it,” Cobart said. “Our climate is worth it, we have to protect ourselves, protect each other. That’s why I’m here.”

Local barista and bartender, Carroll Driver, said she wants to see the younger generation being politically active and legislators to take a stance against legislators that aren’t standing up for them.

“I need you to honor your oath to protect the Constitution and don’t be afraid of a fascist who, granted, will punish you, but take a hit,” Driver said as a message to legislators. “It’s your job, you’re here to protect us.”

Georgetown native John Zagarella said he grew up in a politically active environment, protesting and fighting for rights.

Zagarella said he was concerned about the healthcare system under the Trump administration.

“I’m 60 years old and I’m facing the possibility of having no social security, no Medicare,” Zagarella said. “What have I worked for for all these years?”

Zagarella said legislators need to “stand up for the people,” or face opponents running against them who are willing to stand up for the people.

“It’s not the Democrats or the Republicans, because anybody being silent right now is being complicit. They’re a part of it,” Zagarella said. “If you’re not enraged and you’re not speaking up, you’re part of the problem.”

Zagarella said the automotive industry is going to be severely impacted, including the three major automotive plants in Kentucky, saying he hopes the younger generation will “step up.”

“I think younger people are where it’s at. You are the future and you have the chance to change America,” Zagarella said. “If you stand up and fight against this, you have the energy, you have the intelligence, you deserve the education.”

U.S. citizens need to stand up for the people, saying if citizens put Trump in office, the same citizens need to help take him out, Zagarella said.

“Don’t let people trample your rights,” Zagarella said. “At some point, if you don’t stand up for our peace, nobody will stand up for you.”