Lansing — The first rule of protesting? Know what you’re protesting. Evidently, no one told the demonstrators in Lansing yesterday.
The protest was part of a national “Good Trouble Lives On” day of action, meant to oppose “attacks on civil and human rights” by the Trump administration.
Unfortunately, when asked to define what a civil right is, most protestors came up empty.
“That’s a good question… I haven’t really thought of it,” admitted one.
Another responded with a confused echo: “What IS a civil right?… The right to be treated with dignity?” Not quite.
Beyond the nervous laughs and blank stares, it was clear these protestors weren’t well versed in the civics behind their slogans. Most couldn’t articulate what specific rights were under attack, but they did seem excited to cosplay as part of a heroic resistance for the evening.
One woman told me she feared for her trans “daughter’s” human rights—though she couldn’t name which ones were being threatened. My best guess is that she was referring to the “right” to use the girls’ bathroom or to compete in women’s sports? Sorry… not a human right!
I didn’t find the answers I was looking for, but the Lansing protestors taught me an important lesson: if you’re going to protest, do your research and know what you’re talking about.
Aldo Buttazzoni is a contributor to Michigan Enjoyer. Follow him on X @AldoButtazzoni and Instagram @AldoButtazzoni.
