Over 100 Alton protesters rally against Trump’s policies at Lincoln-Douglas Square

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ALTON — Over 100 individuals convened at Alton’s Lincoln-Douglas Square on Sunday to demonstrate against President Donald Trump's conduct. This event followed remarks made by MSNBC commentator Rachel Maddow cited Alton's demonstration on nationwide TV on April 28.

The demonstrators, including some who had participated in anti-Vietnam War protests in the late '60s, felt as though they were experiencing the chaos of a previous time all over again.

“I protested during the time of the Vietnam War,” stated Joanne Palmer from Edwardsville. “His cruelty and his lack of support for the American people are concerning.”

Palmer also demonstrated at Kent State in 1970, where four unarmed students lost their lives and nine more were injured due to the actions of the Ohio National Guard.

Several of the protesters at Sunday's event commented on Trump's cruelty to Americans. Some protestors held and carried upside-down American flags, a recognized sign of distress.

Andi Smith said the best way to sum up Trump's performance is a "lack of empathy and caring for the American people with no care for the average person."

Signs displayed on Sunday point to several areas that the protestors felt are Trump's weaknesses.

Several placards read: "Science paves our way forward," "Hatred won’t restore greatness," "To those who backed Trump—you also faced defeat," "He isn't looking out for American interests," "Remove Trump, Protect Veterans Affairs," "We desire the return of our nation," "Guard our Constitution," "Keep your hands off Head Start, PBS, and NPR programs," "Tarrifs harm citizens," and "This is an overthrow attempt."

At the event, there were also two individuals who supported Trump, and they maintained a safe space between themselves and the gathering.

Car horns blared in solidarity with the protesters, and the demonstrators waved in response to each vehicle. One car eased up beside them so the driver could yell out comments, but the protesters remained unperturbed by his words.

Many of them maintained a positive attitude but believed that demonstrating was their responsibility.

The weekly Sunday protests in Alton have been occurring since April 6. Sunday's event at Alton's Lincoln Douglas square was held from noon to 2 p.m. Protestors vowed to continue organizing and protesting against the president's policies.