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TAMPA, Fla (WFLA) — About two dozen people rallied against President Donald Trump’s inauguration at Tampa City Hall Monday.
“I can’t believe that we’re at this point again,” said Emily Black, who attended the protest. “I can’t believe that we didn’t learn the first time enough to move on from this.”
Others told News Channel 8 On Your Side they feel proud on this historic day, saying it’s about time.
“It’s been a long road, but we made it,” said Michael Fusella, the President of USF College Republicans.
The Tampa Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression and Tampa Bay Students for a Democratic Society are standing against the president’s agenda, such as saying no to mass deportations.
“Our country was established on stolen land. Why are we worrying about immigration policies? How about making policies to better improve the naturalization system,” Black said. “The grunt work that they are performing, and without that labor present, we are going to see a fall in the stock market again — we are going to see an impact on the economy.”
USF College Republicans said this administration will put Americans first by protecting and giving them jobs. They also said President Trump with fix what they say is a broken immigration system.
“You take that backlog off our system by securing our border, creating a wall, and by deportations,” said Ethan Vaubel, the Former President of USF College Republicans.
They said they don’t think the president will do much to hurt how people express themselves policy wise. However, the president did sign an executive order stating there are only two biological sexes. Another order would stop diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the federal government.
“We want things to be merit based. Not based off what gender identity you are, sexual orientation, what race you are,” Fusella said.
“It’s about the big picture and I think everyone’s pushing a bunch of other stuff to hurt people for no reason,” said Ryle Willis, who is against the Trump administration.
News Channel 8 On Your Side asked both groups what the next four years should look like. They both agreed on seeing more community engagement and involvement in policy changes. Also, they want people to stay informed on what’s happening on all levels of government.