A Skateboarder's Unforgettable Protest Rally Experience

Ever since I started my freshman year at Rutgers University, I have had plenty of opportunities to participate in political protests and protests against the immigration ban and the construction of the wall. Our university's student body is quite diverse when it comes to political views, and we even have a small but active Marxist-Leninist organization. So, I've been fortunate to experience numerous protest rallies over the years.

My First Protest Rally

It was a chilly Wednesday afternoon when a friend from the political club I joined sent me details about a peaceful protest rally against the immigration ban. I was in my dorm preparing for a Logic class test, but after getting the invitation, I decided to head out for the rally.

The rally was to protest the immigration ban from a few Muslim-majority countries. Despite the challenging weather and the fact that I wasn't particularly excited about going, I was intrigued by the idea of attending. Little did I know, this experience would change me forever.

Initial Impressions at the Rally

After a ten-minute bus ride to the rally site, I couldn't believe my eyes. A huge crowd had gathered, and police cars were everywhere. However, it wasn't the large crowd or the safety measures that surprised me. What struck me most was the remarkable order and silence that enveloped the gathering. I have always associated crowds with chaos and unruliness, but here, with hundreds of people silently standing and bowing their heads in prayer, the atmosphere was completely different.

This act of cultural integration was deeply moving. It was the perfect setup for the night of protesting. Being a shy and reserved individual brought up in a quiet neighborhood in India, this experience allowed me to break free from my usual shell. I felt more alive than ever before, and this newfound energy only grew as the night progressed.

The Highlights of the Rally

The chants were the highlights of the rally. People shouted slogans like “Education not deportation,” “The people united shall never be defeated,” and “No Trump No KKK No Fascist USA.” The strength and unity of the crowd were palpable. One particularly spontaneous chant stood out: “Women: My body my choice; Men: Her body her choice.”

As we marched through the streets, we passed through various neighborhoods, including an underdeveloped Latino area. A young girl waved and smiled at us, her hands waving in excitement. Her enthusiasm and joy were contagious, and it was a moment that I will never forget.

Reflections and Conclusion

The rally ended near midnight, and even after hours of walking and chanting, I felt no exhaustion. The energy of the crowd was invigorating, and it was clear that this wasn't just about a political message; it was about coming together and making a statement. This experience taught me that political activism can be a powerful and life-changing force, and it has significantly impacted who I am today.