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HDTC, Indivisible team up to cohost protest highlighting citizen, women’s rights

A joint protest planned in Hopkinton this weekend will focus on women’s rights and the rights of American citizens.

On Saturday, the Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee and the Indivisible MA Feminist Action Team are cohosting a protest on the Town Common. The groups encourage residents to show up from 10 a.m.-noon with signs or flags relevant to the themes of “Stop the Republican War on Women” (Indivisible) or “We the People” (HDTC).

Amy Groves, chair of the HDTC, explained in an email that the idea for the event came from residents asking for more opportunities to protest. While other towns have had weekly protests, she explained, Hopkinton has seen far fewer.

“I think as a matter of local pride [people] wanted to be able to protest here at home more often,” stated Groves.

After the HDTC learned from member Parmelee Eastman that Indivisible was planning an event advocating for women’s rights, a decision was made to combine the protests.

“A peaceful protest like this can be very good for the mental health, for both protestors and observers,” Groves responded when asked about the aims of the event. “And when people see their friends and neighbors protesting, they themselves are more likely to get out there and pick up a sign or a flag.”

A press release from the HDTC stressed that the protest will be peaceful, and that both groups involved expect participants to de-escalate any potential conflicts should they arise.

Participants will gather on the north side of the Town Common on Saturday, near the Doughboy statue. Groves explained there will be no speakers, but rather attempts to engage with the public.

“We expect to be smiling, cheering and waving at anyone we see,” Groves stated.

Groves anticipates a moderate crowd of 30 or more people. “People are very eager to get out there,” she noted.

For more information, visit the HDTC website or the official protest event page.

Latest News

A month-long construction project to improve drainage on Wood Street will begin Monday.

The Water-Sewer Department warned residents Tuesday to adhere to the town’s water restrictions following a drop in available groundwater.

This week’s Police Log features reports of an aggressive solicitor, a group of people being combative at Alltown Express and a dog attacking chickens.

Photo of the Day

A small hole that formed during the excessively hot weather earlier this week appears on the sidewalk along Grove Street.

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR