Residents of Haverford's Quadrangle senior community hold protest against Trump

Protest in Haverford

Senior residents of the Quadrangle senior community in Haverford, Pennsylvania, organized a protest against the Trump presidency, voicing concerns about growing authoritarianism and policies impacting social security and Medicare.

Key Participants

• Judy Bardes (93): A first-time protester motivated by concerns about democracy and the treatment of Salvadoran refugee Kilmar Abrego Garcia.
• Peter Stern (89): A Holocaust survivor protesting cuts to science, research, and the Veterans Administration, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against injustice.
• Julie Stern (85): Peter's wife, instrumental in organizing the protest within the Quadrangle community.
• Carol Reiss (76): A retired speech therapist who highlighted the perceived dismantling of societal protections and the misuse of government funds.

Context and Significance

The protest coincided with nationwide demonstrations and the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution, drawing parallels between historical struggles for liberty and current anxieties. The Quadrangle community's predominantly liberal political leanings and high concentration of academics contributed to the protest's organization.

Main Arguments

Protesters expressed deep concerns about the erosion of democratic norms, cuts to social programs, and the increasing influence of political figures like Elon Musk threatening senior citizens' benefits. Many emphasized their historical context and a unique understanding of the dangers of authoritarianism, stemming from their experiences during World War II.