On April 5, 2025, hundreds of people gathered in West Palm Beach as part of the nationwide “Hands Off” protest. Organized in response to recent federal actions, the event centered on concern for how national policies are affecting everyday Americans. As a photographer, I attended to document the moment and witness people exercising their voice through peaceful protest.

What Sparked the Movement

The “Hands Off” movement gained traction as a response to recent federal restructuring efforts. Much of the concern focused on Elon Musk, who now oversees the Department of Government Efficiency. Under his direction, over 200,000 federal jobs have been cut, affecting agencies like the IRS and the Social Security Administration. Protesters expressed fear that these decisions were weakening key institutions, not strengthening them. (Reuters)

In addition to job cuts, the protest drew attention to new tariffs introduced by the Trump administration. Critics say these trade policies are hurting farmers and raising costs for consumers. For many, the concern isn’t about one political figure—it’s about the ripple effect of decisions made at the top.

Voices in the Crowd

The West Palm Beach demonstration brought together a wide range of participants. Some held signs calling for economic stability; others spoke about healthcare, public services, or immigration. While their messages varied, there was a shared concern for the long-term impact of these policies.

As the demonstration continued, passing cars honked in support. The sound of honking created a rhythm alongside the chanting, giving a sense of connection between those on foot and those simply passing by.

A Nationwide Response

The national turnout for the “Hands Off” protests was significant. More than 1,200 demonstrations were held across the country. In Washington, D.C., over 20,000 people gathered on the National Mall. Protests even took place internationally, in cities like Berlin and Paris. (Reuters)

Gear Used

I used the Canon EOS R8 with the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens, paired with the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R. This combination gave me flexibility for both crowd shots and more intimate moments. The lens is sharp, reliable, and works beautifully on the R8 with the adapter. I leaned on its wide-to-telephoto range to capture everything from signage details to the rhythm of the march. Even in changing light conditions, the gear held steady—making it easier to stay focused on the moment rather than the settings.