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LIGHTNING PHOTOS: Throng says Trump is wrong

By Bill Moss, Published: April 6, 2025

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at the Historic Courthouse plaza on Saturday against the Trump administration, declaring in speeches, signs and chants opposition to potential cuts to Social Security and government jobs, the shutdown of agencies, a pulling back support of Ukraine and more.

Drawing a large crowd to the downtown courthouse under sunny skies, the rally was one of many around the state and the country. Multiple media sources reported that demonstrations took place at more than 1,200 cities and towns across the U.S. in events organized by civil rights organizations, labor unions, LBGTQ+ advocates, veterans and elections activists. The rallies appeared peaceful, with no immediate reports of arrests, the Associated Press reported.

Hendersonville Police Chief Blair Myhand, who observed the rally from a barricade on Main at Second Avenue, estimated the crowd at around 1,200 people. Organizers had held rallies before Saturday that attracted good-sized crowds but this time asked for and received permission to block off the 100 block of Main. Looking at the crowd, which filled the street and spread into adjoining blocks, Myhand said, "I'm glad we closed the street."

Hendersonville City Council member Melinda Lowrance led the chant of "Fired up, Ready to go" after criticizing the Trump administration's policies. State and federal legislators have done nothing to help, she said.

“They have bowed down to King Don and kissed the ring. They are sponsoring bills that will have a negative impact on our lives,” she said.

“Diversity, equity and inclusion is being dismantled because they perceive it as a threat,” Lowrance said. “Why are we such a threat? Diversity, equity and inclusion enables the United States to be more innovative. It gives everyone an opportunity to prosper. We all need a seat at the table.

"Egregious things are being done to our democracy. We must be like that tree that stands by the water and not be moved. Not only shall we overcome, we will overcome.”