TROY – On Thursday, July 17, residents gathered in Troy as part of Good Trouble Lives On — a nationwide day of action honoring the life and legacy of civil rights activist Congressman John Lewis.

The local event, organized by a member of the local Anti-Fascist book club, was one of hundreds coordinated actions across the country. Participants marched, rallied, and made “good trouble” to demand an end to the growing attacks on voting rights, civil liberties, and essential public programs.

“We showed up today because Congressman Lewis taught us that getting into ‘good trouble’ is how we change history,” said Will McKay of the book club. “Our democracy is under attack — and we won’t be silent while extremist politicians try to roll back our rights and erase our voices.”

The event featured a variety of people from the area from different political backgrounds, from non-partisans, former Republicans, and members of the local Democratic party as well.

Each brought concerns about the current political climate, from defending Medicaid and Medicare, to demanding due process and the promise of “Liberty and Justice for all.”

One young couple in a sports car even stopped to get out and take a picture after applauding our efforts and demonstration.

The event started just before 7 p.m. and lasted a little over an hour. The weather cooperated and everyone’s signs and persons stayed dry.

Many passersby expressed their support with cheers and honks and waves.

There were no incidents with hecklers or any calls resulting in response from the Troy Police, though they were aware of the events time and place and in a call with the volunteer host Will McKay expressed that everyone’s safety was their top concern.

Participants echoed the national campaign’s demands, including:

• Ending the Trump administration’s assault on civil and human rights;

• Stopping politicians from targeting Black, Brown, immigrant, and trans communities with harmful policies;

• Protecting and expanding vital programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and Social Security.

In the spirit of Congressman Lewis’ legacy, participants committed to continuing the fight for a multiracial democracy where every voice counts and every person has the freedom to thrive.

For more information about the national campaign, visit www.goodtroubleliveson.org.