Chants of “the people united, will never be defeated,” echoed throughout Monroe Park on Monday afternoon as dozens of Richmonders rallied and marched in defense of the world’s oppressed, and against the wave of expected changes to come with the second term of President Trump.

The Richmond rally was one of over 60 held in major cities across the country during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday as part of the “We Fight Back” National Day of Action, and occurred after Trump was again sworn into office.

The Richmond rally saw endorsements from many local groups and figures, including the Party for Socialism and Liberation Virginia, Sunrise Richmond, Students for Justice in Palestine VCU, the Progressive Jewish Student Union and Richmond School Board member Ali Faruk.

A powerful message of unity and mobilization resonated as people rallied against looming threats to workers’ rights, the environment and communities worldwide, fueled by war, bigotry and exploitation. Many attendees carried flags, banners and signs expressing support for immigrant families, Palestinians, laborers and other groups.

And while Trump was a major focus of the protest, those assembled also made clear the Democratic Party must be held to task for allowing their priorities and agenda to enable his return and enriching a few at the cost of many.

Other “We Fight Back” rallies were held in other locations days before the Monday protests, and more are scheduled for the days ahead.