Another national demonstration against actions by the Trump administration is coming to Stockton this weekend at San Joaquin Delta College.
Organized by community member and Delta student Dawn Griep, the demonstration is aligned with the national Hands Off! movement, which saw earlier this month more than a thousand protests across the country in one day, including Stockton.
The movement’s upcoming event is scheduled for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in front of the college’s Student Services building.
This protest is meant to call attention to sweeping federal policy proposals that threaten public programs, including Medi-Cal, Social Security, and protections for immigrant and marginalized communities. Griep, whose own son relies on government-covered medical care and therapy, said the proposed budget cuts are not just political but deeply personal.
“We are fighting for the survival of our inalienable rights,” she said, pointing to what she described as a broader erosion of civil liberties and the need for democratic accountability.
The decision to hold the event at Delta College was prompted by concerns raised during the local Hands Off! demonstration that was held earlier this month on the corner of March Lane and Feather River Drive as part of a nationwide day of protest against President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. Griep and other attendees noted a lack of diverse representation along with limited visibility.
“Delta offers a central, accessible location that better reflects the diversity of Stockton,” Griep said, adding that its placement along Pacific Avenue improves public visibility. “And as a lifelong learner, Delta holds personal meaning for me.”
Griep says she coordinated with the college and its campus police, who were said to have been notified in advance. Because the protest does not include food vendors, traffic obstruction or facility closures, she said a special event permit was not required under city of Stockton guidelines.
A Delta spokesperson did not immediately respond to Stocktonia’s request for comment.
The demonstration coincides with the anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolution—a historical reference organizers say highlights the long-standing tradition of civic participation and public dissent in American Democracy.
Griep views the protest as a peaceful stand for accountability, inclusion and democratic values.
“Americans are not property to squeeze dry,” she said. “This is a call to action — for visibility, for truth and for the people to be heard.”
Participants are encouraged to bring signs and musical instruments, according to Griep, which is meant to contribute to a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. Safety, accessibility, and lawful assembly remain top priorities, she said.
“We’re showing up for each other, for our community, and for a government that should serve all of us — not just the powerful few,” Griep said.