This was a day to honor the memory of civil rights leader and congressman John Lewis, who said "Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble."

On a weeknight - one of the hottest, most humid days on record in 2025 - hundreds of Newarkers stood in solidarity with 1,600 similar “Good Trouble” protests held across the nation. Participants gathered at the steps of Old College Hall to hear remarks before marching down Main Street and along Cleveland Avenue. Guest speakers included state representatives Madinah Wilson-Anton and Kendra Johnson.

Those who defied the intense heat and humidity brought energy enough to fill the streets—energy fueled by deep concern over an out-of-control Trump administration.

This is what democracy looks like!