Kirstin Garriss on Protests & Juneteenth Insights
Kirstin Garriss Unpacks Nationwide Protests and Juneteenth Observations
This past weekend, protests erupted across the United States and even overseas, sparking conversations about democracy, freedom, and the current political climate. While viral clips dominated social media, award-winning political journalist and freelance reporter Kirstin Garriss joined Vic Jagger on the “Politickin’” segment to provide deeper insights into the events and their implications.
“These protests, known as the ‘No Kings’ demonstrations, were a response to the administration’s military parade in D.C.,” Garriss explained. “Organizers estimate over 5 million people participated in more than 2,000 planned demonstrations across the U.S. and even in countries like Germany and France.”
The military parade, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, drew sharp criticism. “It’s rare to see peacetime military parades in the U.S.,” Garriss noted. “Many viewed it as a display of dominance, especially given the backdrop of recent ICE raids and political tensions.”
The protests were a collaborative effort, with over 200 organizations, including MoveOn, the ACLU, and the American Federation of Teachers, joining forces. “It wasn’t just everyday folks,” Garriss said. “Celebrities like Kerry Washington and Jennifer Lewis also took to the streets, showing how this movement transcends socioeconomic and cultural boundaries.”
Garriss also touched on the upcoming Juneteenth holiday, a federal observance commemorating the end of slavery. “While Juneteenth is still a federal holiday, the current administration’s push to end diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives has sparked questions about its nationwide celebration,” she explained. “Some cities have canceled events due to political pushback, but here in the DMV, there are plenty of events planned.”
As the nation grapples with these issues, Garriss emphasized the importance of staying informed. “These protests are about more than just one event—they’re about standing up for democracy and against dictatorship,” she said.
You can follow Kirstin Garriss on social media at @ReporterGarris for more updates and insights.
