Dozens of women boarded a bus in suburban Cincinnati, Ohio, for a 36-hour road trip to Washington D.C. The bus, an olive green charter vehicle, was packed with protesters from three cities, including Cleveland and Columbus, who had traveled hours via detours to reach the nation's capital.
The group, many of whom were mothers, wives, and activists opposed to former President Donald Trump's policies, carried handmade signs that read "Impeach, Convict, Remove" and wore red hooded cloaks and white bonnets inspired by the 2017 Hulu series 'The Handmaid's Tale'. The trip was part of a nationwide protest effort known as the Removal Coalition, which aims to remove Trump from office.
Among them was Judy Routhier, a 72-year-old mother of four who had participated in over 70 protests since February. She wore laminated signs that read "Hump-y Trump-y Must Fall!" and expressed her concern about looming cuts to social safety net programs like Medicaid health insurance.
The women's motivations were largely driven by their opposition to Trump's presidency, particularly his attacks on reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ people, immigrants, and the rule of law. The protest coincided with a tumultuous week in which Trump was forced to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Upon arrival at Union Station near the Capitol building, protesters marched to the Lincoln Memorial, where they were joined by lawmakers and speakers, including Rep. Al Green and House of Representatives contender Kat Abughazaleh. The rally featured music performances from groups like the Dropkick Murphys and a sold-out comedy event called "Comedy Church".
Protesters also wore pig ears and snouts, referencing Trump's infamous comment about women being quiet and unimportant. Many had worked Trump's exchange with a reporter into their protest gear. At least half a dozen protesters were dressed up as Miss Piggy from 'The Muppet Show'.
For many, the event was a meaningful moment of resistance against what they perceive as a hostile administration. For some, it was also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and build momentum for future protests.
As the women boarded their bus to return home, exhausted but exhilarated, they expressed their commitment to continue fighting for change. For Routhier, her next protest is already planned – her 73rd in total – while Mazzuckelli aims to organize grassroots movements in rural areas of Ohio and build an "army" of women like herself who are willing to take a stand against Trump's policies.
The group's trip, though unconventional and winding its way across the country, had brought them together as fellow travelers on a shared mission – one that transcended party lines, social status, and even personal risk.
The group, many of whom were mothers, wives, and activists opposed to former President Donald Trump's policies, carried handmade signs that read "Impeach, Convict, Remove" and wore red hooded cloaks and white bonnets inspired by the 2017 Hulu series 'The Handmaid's Tale'. The trip was part of a nationwide protest effort known as the Removal Coalition, which aims to remove Trump from office.
Among them was Judy Routhier, a 72-year-old mother of four who had participated in over 70 protests since February. She wore laminated signs that read "Hump-y Trump-y Must Fall!" and expressed her concern about looming cuts to social safety net programs like Medicaid health insurance.
The women's motivations were largely driven by their opposition to Trump's presidency, particularly his attacks on reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ people, immigrants, and the rule of law. The protest coincided with a tumultuous week in which Trump was forced to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Upon arrival at Union Station near the Capitol building, protesters marched to the Lincoln Memorial, where they were joined by lawmakers and speakers, including Rep. Al Green and House of Representatives contender Kat Abughazaleh. The rally featured music performances from groups like the Dropkick Murphys and a sold-out comedy event called "Comedy Church".
Protesters also wore pig ears and snouts, referencing Trump's infamous comment about women being quiet and unimportant. Many had worked Trump's exchange with a reporter into their protest gear. At least half a dozen protesters were dressed up as Miss Piggy from 'The Muppet Show'.
For many, the event was a meaningful moment of resistance against what they perceive as a hostile administration. For some, it was also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and build momentum for future protests.
As the women boarded their bus to return home, exhausted but exhilarated, they expressed their commitment to continue fighting for change. For Routhier, her next protest is already planned – her 73rd in total – while Mazzuckelli aims to organize grassroots movements in rural areas of Ohio and build an "army" of women like herself who are willing to take a stand against Trump's policies.
The group's trip, though unconventional and winding its way across the country, had brought them together as fellow travelers on a shared mission – one that transcended party lines, social status, and even personal risk.
the way they all came together as fellow travelers on a shared mission is just amazing 
they're not just fighting for change, but for each other too 
it's clear these women aren't messing around when it comes to speaking truth to power 
can't wait to see what happens next for these amazing women 
, but this protest seems kinda extreme with the whole Handmaid's Tale vibe 
. I mean, come on, wearing red hooded cloaks and white bonnets? It's like they're trying too hard to make a statement. And what's up with all the handmade signs? Can't they just get some professional help for once? 
. These women have been through so much since Trump took office, and it's great that they're not giving up 
. The fact that they're all from different cities and backgrounds makes this movement all the more powerful 
.
. Rep. Al Green's presence was a nice touch, and I loved the comedy event – it's not every day you get to laugh while protesting 
.
. We need more women like these activists making their voices heard in Washington D.C. 
️. Fingers crossed! 
. They're showing us that even in the darkest times, resistance can be powerful and beautiful 
. I'm feeling a sense of hope with all these women standing together for what they believe in 
.
And it's so inspiring to see her and others like Mazzuckelli organizing grassroots movements in rural areas of Ohio. We need more people like them who aren't afraid to speak out against injustice.
This whole thing is just another attempt to disrupt our country 
. I mean, have you seen these protesters? They're all dressed up like Miss Piggy... what's next, wearing funny hats to the White House 
. I'm all for free speech and protests, but can't they just calm down and discuss issues in a civil manner? 
. The government is already overwhelmed with problems; do we really need more noise and chaos? 
I'm not buying it 
. The fact that women from all over the US are coming together like this, traveling hours just to stand up against Trump's policies... it gives me both hope and anxiety 
. On one hand, I love that these women aren't afraid to speak out and organize for change - it's truly inspiring 
.
And can we talk about how dedicated Judy Routhier is? 73 protests already?! 
... anyone can make "Impeach, Convict, Remove" with a Sharpie. 
.
?! The creativity and playfulness are everything! What I love most is that this movement isn't just about opposing Trump, but about creating a collective voice for change - it's all about building momentum and support for positive social justice 
72 yr old judy routhier is a total rockstar having participated in over 70 protests already and she's still going strong 
Those gals are fierce! 
Who needs a White House tour when you can just take over the bus?! 
They're not just protesting 'cause they don't like Trump's policies, it's about the bigger picture - they're fighting for their rights, fam! 
And can we please just focus on those looming cuts to social safety nets already? Medicaid health insurance is like, people's lives are at stake here 
. The fact that this protest is happening while Trump's dealing with his own scandals (Jeffrey Epstein) just adds fuel to the fire 
they're so passionate about making a change and standing up for what they believe in