Several individuals demonstrating their right to protest as they marched downtown Checotah Saturday morning after meeting at Veterans Park to say “Hands Off” their jobs as well as others. The Hands Off protests were led by a nationwide coalition of organizations, including civil rights organizations, veterans, women’s rights groups, labor unions, and LGBTQ+ advocates.

Organizers had 1,300 protests being held across several states as people rallied to be part of the “Hands Off” movement claiming to be a “nationwide mobilization” against Presidents Trump’s secondterm policies and Elon Musk’s involvement with the U.S. government.

Many Americans have voiced their concerns and opposition against Trump with the White House immigration crackdown, federal program funding cuts, including the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) job cuts which they believe will hurt Americans instead of helping them.

The DOGE claims its mission is to save taxpayer’s money and reduce the national debt.

However, the DOGE has encountered many legal obstacles and allegations of conflicts of interest with many Americans fearing a “hostile takeover” of government power that could wreak serious havoc instead of help.

As rain continued to fall, individuals from around the area marched down the streets carrying signs that read “Hands Off – National Day of Action” and “Courage is contagious –Stand up! Speak out!” Another sign read “Hands Off – Medicare, Education and Social Security.”

The 50501 movement claims to be committed to conflict resolution, inclusivity and nonviolence. They hope to promote diplomacy and build a community rooted in compassion and mutual respect.

The local protest was peaceful though some took to social media to voice their opposing opinions of the march.