Three point five percent

A chronicle of democracy as it appeared on the streets for our community's "Hands Off" march and rally.

Several organizations in our town collaborated on an event as part of the nationwide (and global) “Hands Off” mobilization.

We met, we walked, we chanted, we laughed, we cried, and most of all, we joined our voices in defense of the democracy that makes such public gatherings legal.

At least one historian’s work indicates that it takes only about 3.5% of the population involved in sustained, nonviolent resistance to overthrow (or prevent) a dictator.

On April 5, 2025, it looked to me as if our community exceeded that number.

We have to keep doing this, as often as needed, until democracy is free to blossom and thrive again.

Be safe and well, and thank you for showing up in the 3.5%.

Learn more about Dr. Chenowith’s research:

https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-54142487