In the wake of President Donald Trump’s return to office, the grassroots progressive organization Indivisible has experienced a significant resurgence. Originally formed in 2016 to resist Trump’s policies, Indivisible has expanded to nearly 2,000 chapters nationwide. The movement recently organized the “Hands Off” protests on April 5, 2025, mobilizing citizens to oppose what they view as authoritarian measures by the current administration.
The “Hands Off” protests marked a pivotal moment in the opposition to the second Trump administration. Over 500,000 people participated in more than 1,000 rallies across all 50 U.S. states and internationally, targeting President Trump and Elon Musk for their significant cuts to federal programs. Demonstrators voiced opposition to recent actions by the Trump administration, including the cancellation of over $12 billion in health funding, job cuts at the Education Department, and defunding of cultural institutions.
Leaders Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg emphasize nonviolent resistance and aim to fill the leadership void within the Democratic Party by uniting a broad coalition to defend democratic institutions and civil liberties. While Levin and Greenberg lead from their Washington home, the movement thrives on decentralized local action, uniting citizens who had previously been disengaged. Despite threats and right-wing accusations of insurrection, the organization maintains a strong commitment to nonviolence.
Indivisible’s resurgence is particularly notable in regions like the Bay Area, where new chapters are forming rapidly. Since November 2024, 72 new chapters have been established in Northern California alone, accompanied by a surge in membership and activism. The organization is refocusing efforts on long-term strategies—pressuring elected officials, building local power, and targeting swing districts.
The movement’s current focus is on defense and unity across a broad coalition, with proactive policy planning contingent on restoring political power. Indivisible members believe coordinated, grassroots mobilization is essential to oppose Trump’s agenda and preserve democratic governance. Their strategy includes supporting democracy reform candidates and prioritizing legislative fixes like the For the People Act.
The “Hands Off” protests have maintained a commitment to nonviolence despite tensions and controversial counterclaims from political leaders. Protesters emphasized broader grievances, including threats to services, rights, and freedoms, with signs supporting transgender people, immigrants, and public programs. Unique to this movement, rallies occurred not only in liberal cities but also in traditionally pro-Trump regions such as Fayetteville, WV, and Cookeville, TN, seeking to unite long-time critics and newly affected citizens.
As Indivisible continues to mobilize citizens across the country, the movement underscores that real change depends not on individual leaders but collective, sustained civic action. By fostering community engagement and policy advocacy, Indivisible aims to counter the current administration’s agenda and promote democratic values.
