Full Breakdown
Protests Erupt Against U.S. and Israeli Actions in Iran
3/8/2026, 9:44:21 PM
Overview of the Protests
On March 2, 2026, a significant demonstration took place at Los Angeles City Hall, where over 200 protesters gathered to voice their opposition to the recent bombing of Iran by the United States and Israel. The rally was organized by the Answer Coalition and featured participants carrying flags from Mexico, Palestine, and Iran. Activists expressed their concerns about the implications of U.S. military actions and the broader impact on democracy.
Key Figures in the Movement
Bert Voorhees, a retired lawyer and teacher, emerged as a prominent voice among the protesters. He emphasized the urgency of civic engagement, stating, “If people don’t stand up and get loud about this, all together right now, we’re not going to have a country.” Voorhees has a history of activism, having protested various issues, including immigration raids and military actions under both President Obama and President Trump. He articulated a belief that democracy requires active participation beyond just voting.
Denise Giardina, a book seller from Huntington Beach, also participated in the protests and highlighted the importance of community involvement. She noted that planning political actions has become a full-time commitment for her, driven by a desire for future generations to have more rights. Roseanne Costantino, a graphic designer, echoed these sentiments, arguing that those who choose to disengage from political discourse do so from a position of privilege.
Motivations Behind the Protests
The protests were fueled by a sense of urgency regarding the current political climate, which Voorhees described as a time when democracy is under threat. He criticized President Trump’s military actions as not only a show of strength but also a distraction from domestic issues, including economic challenges and declining approval ratings. Voorhees remarked, “We just haven’t had in my lifetime a person so determined to destroy democracy,” reflecting a broader concern among activists about the erosion of democratic norms.
Community Response and Historical Context
The protests also drew parallels to past community actions, such as the response to immigration raids that resulted in the deaths of innocent individuals. Voorhees cited Minneapolis as a model for community resilience, stating, “Minneapolis pushed back against that with humanity, and that’s the future we want to build.” He invoked the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing the need for a collective movement towards justice and compassion.
Official Statements & Responses
Activists at the rally articulated a clear message: change is only possible through active participation. Voorhees urged attendees to “get up off the couch,” highlighting the necessity of grassroots movements in shaping the future. The sentiment among protesters was one of determination, with many expressing hope that collective action could lead to meaningful change.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If people don’t stand up and get loud about this, all together right now, we’re not going to have a country,” — Bert Voorhees, Activist
- “Sometimes you can’t think about the end,” — Denise Giardina, Activist
- “The arc of the universe bends toward justice,” Voorhees said, “but it doesn’t do it steadily.” — Bert Voorhees, Activist
- “You can march ahead with a heavy heart and a downcast head, or dance ahead with a smile and a tune on your lips, hand in hand with people you care about. Why not do that? All empires fall. All kings and tyrants fail in the end. Sometimes it’s fast. Sometimes it’s slow. But that day is coming and, as the Twin Cities proved, love is stronger than hate, if only just.” — Bert Voorhees, Activist
Conclusion
The protests against U.S. and Israeli actions in Iran reflect a growing discontent among citizens regarding military interventions and the state of democracy. Activists like Voorhees, Giardina, and Costantino are committed to fostering community engagement and advocating for a future rooted in justice and equality. As the movement continues to evolve, the voices of these activists underscore the importance of civic participation in shaping societal values and policies.
