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At The People’s March in New Mexico, Rally-Goers Brace for a Second Trump Presidency

Hundreds gathered in Albuquerque’s Civic Plaza on January 19, 2025, for The People’s March, a rally marking the eve of President-elect Donald Trump’s second inauguration. The event, held in sync with protests across the nation, saw a diverse group of speakers call for unity and resistance in the face of an incoming administration that many feel will roll back social progress.

The rally, hosted by the New Mexico Women’s March, highlighted the political divide in the country as supporters of Trump’s second term prepared for what they predict will be a contentious period ahead. Speakers at the event warned of the looming consequences of Trump’s “Project 2025,” a series of initiatives aimed at reshaping the political and social fabric of the nation.

A Call to Action in Albuquerque

As the crowd gathered under a steady New Mexico sun, there was palpable tension in the air. The event was designed not just as a protest, but as a rallying cry to galvanize those who are determined to stand firm against what they see as an increasingly authoritarian administration. New Mexico Women’s March Chair Samia Assed took to the stage to remind attendees of the high stakes involved.

Albuquerque Civic Plaza rally Trump

“A big responsibility lies on our shoulders, and we have to be up for it,” Assed said, her voice rising with emotion. “Come Tuesday, President Trump will have his 100 executive orders ready for us. Project 2025 will unfold. Are we going to fight back?”

The message was clear: the work was only just beginning. Assed’s words were met with applause, signaling that the rally-goers were ready for the challenges ahead. The mood was defiant but also hopeful, as individuals from various backgrounds came together to affirm their commitment to resist.

Deb Haaland’s Keynote: Resistance and Rebuilding

One of the most powerful moments of the event came when outgoing U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland delivered the keynote address. Haaland, who has been a staunch critic of Trump’s policies, used her platform to speak directly to the crowd about the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

“The fight is not over,” Haaland declared, emphasizing that the political landscape would demand constant vigilance. “We will need to do the hard work of getting important things done and pushing back against an administration that couldn’t care less about regular people.”

Haaland’s remarks were met with strong approval from the crowd, many of whom resonated with her call for systemic change and greater representation for working people. She criticized the Trump administration’s reliance on “super-rich people” who, in her view, disregard the struggles of ordinary Americans.

“Our fight is not just about fighting Trump,” Haaland continued. “We need more people with real lived experiences elected to office and serving our communities as doctors, scientists, CEOs, so that solutions reflect who we are.”

Haaland’s words highlighted a growing frustration among those who feel that the current political system is out of touch with everyday citizens. This rally, after all, was as much about building a future as it was about resisting the forces already in power.

A Diverse Group of Voices Speak Out

The rally was also marked by speeches from other prominent political figures and activists who each brought their unique perspective to the stage. New Mexico state Senators Antoinette Sedillo Lopez and Harold Pope, along with Representative Eleanor Chavez, each voiced their concerns about the incoming administration and its impact on local communities.

For many in attendance, the event was a reminder of the ongoing work to achieve equity and justice for marginalized groups. Pueblo Action Alliance Executive Director Julia Bernal, Faith Roots Reproductive Action Development Director Karinna Solares, and El Centro de Igualdad y Derechos Community Organizer Fabiola Landeros all took turns addressing the crowd, focusing on the importance of solidarity and collective action.

“We’re going to fight to remind people in power that they answer to us,” Haaland said toward the end of the event, signaling that the rally was not just about expressing dissent but also about organizing for the long haul.

While the speeches covered a range of topics, from reproductive rights to environmental justice, they all echoed a central theme: a commitment to holding the government accountable, no matter who holds office. The sense of urgency was palpable, as many speakers emphasized the need for an organized resistance to what they see as a dangerous agenda from the Trump administration.

New Mexico’s Growing Political Influence

Perhaps one of the most notable aspects of the rally was the attention paid to the growing influence of New Mexico’s political landscape. As Haaland pointed out, the state was sending a record number of women to the legislature, a trend that suggests a shift in political power toward more inclusive representation.

“We’ve made progress, but we have so much more to do,” Haaland said, reflecting the collective feeling that while victories have been achieved, much work remains. The increasing political engagement of women, especially women of color, was seen as a critical element of the resistance against the new administration.

For those at The People’s March, the event wasn’t just about protesting Trump’s second term but also about preparing for the battles ahead. In a state where the fight for social justice has deep roots, the rally was a reminder that this struggle is far from over—and that the resistance must remain vigilant.

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