The Color Guard

“Day of Action” protests emerged nationwide under the 50501 movement on April 22, 2025. Organizers described the Trump administration’s actions as “anti-democratic and illegal,” according to the 50501 website. In Cleveland, protesters gathered at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument in Public Square to listen to speakers and later march to city hall. Motives ranged from the administration’s wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to research cuts to the President’s extensive use of executive orders. This protest occurred just before Easter Sunday, and further protests are planned for May Day (International Workers' Day) on May 1st.

Dedicated in 1894, the monument honors Union soldiers from Cuyahoga County who fought in the Civil War. It has acted as a site for demonstrations since the Vietnam War. “The Color Guard” on the northwest side depicts the 103rd Ohio Infantry Regiment defending its flag at the Battle of Resaca. All of the figures represented became casualties by the end of the battle.