As summer’s first heatwave blanketed Denver, a significant gathering occurred on Lincoln Avenue, where about two hundred protesters rallied against President Donald Trump’s recent military decision involving Iran.
Earlier that same day, the U.S. executed an extensive military operation dubbed “Midnight Hammer,” deploying over one hundred aircraft to conduct bombings on Iranian nuclear facilities in Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. Vice President J.D. Vance asserted that the military actions were limited to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, framing it as a necessary measure.
Despite the administration’s characterization, the protestors gathered in opposition, driven by a mix of political calls from groups such as the Party for Socialism & Liberation (PSL) and 50501 Colorado, alongside a general sense of discontent among citizens who felt the urgency to voice their dissent.
Katie, an organizer from PSL, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the implications of the government’s actions. “What the Trump Administration did last night, was that peaceful?” she questioned, receiving a resounding chorus of “No!” in response.
She continued, asserting that the bombings constituted an act of war financed by taxpayer dollars, igniting a spirited conversation among those present regarding the administration’s departures from its promise of peace and working-class protection.
Those gathered expressed disbelief that the Trump Administration, which had campaigned on anti-war rhetoric, would initiate yet another taxpayer-funded military operation in the Middle East, especially when many were already facing economic hardships due to ongoing tariffs.
The speakers at the event articulated the gravity of the situation, illustrating that this conflict transcended a regional issue. “Let’s be clear. This is no longer about a regional conflict in the Middle East. The reality is this is the start of World War Three,” one speaker declared, prompting a somber assessment of the potential fallout.
Shehab, a representative from the Colorado Palestine Coalition, followed with a poignant question directed at the crowd: “When will we put the U.S. first, and care about our own people rather than sacrifice our own people?” He reminded attendees of the heavy toll taken by previous conflicts, noting that nearly 5,000 U.S. service members lost their lives in the Iraq war.
A palpable unease rippled through the crowd as attendees exchanged thoughts and concerns, with many expressing frustration over the lack of broader turnout.
Elle, another PSL organizer, addressed these feelings, recalling the recent massive pro-trans youth protest and emphasizing the importance of sustained engagement. “We’re going to be in our streets, we’re going to be in our communities, we’re going to keep track of what Trump is doing with our money and in our name,” she pledged.
As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, signaling the end of the demonstration, music played through the speakers and the event concluded.
While some attendees were eager for a march to follow or felt the event concluded too early, many stayed behind holding their signs in support of their message.
In the aftermath of Trump’s military decision, organizers conversed in the shade, reflecting on past mobilizations and acknowledging the need for ongoing activism in light of the fresh conflict.
With the media continuously unfolding the details of the military operations, many citizens left the protest pondering their next steps and the potential for future actions, as the war’s implications weighed heavily on their minds.
image source from：yellowscene
