Yesterday evening, We March, We Rise made a post on the r/LGBT subreddit informing the broader community about the upcoming LGBTQIA+ National March on Washington (Inclusion Day) scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, 2025, in response to the growing attacks on the LGBTQIA+ community.
In the wake of this announcement, several comments have surfaced promoting violence, rioting, or direct action against the administration. Let us be crystal clear: our movement denounces all forms of violence, destruction, or civil unrest—whether initiated by our own or our opposition. These comments do not reflect our values, and we reject any comparison to the January 6th insurrectionists. We are not them, and we never will be.
Additionally, we strongly condemn any rhetoric suggesting actions that would force the president into a bunker or otherwise escalate tensions. These types of statements are unacceptable, harmful, and give our opponents ammunition to vilify our cause.
To ensure the safety of all attendees, any individual who arrives at the march with the intent to incite violence or disrupt the event will be immediately reported to event marshals, security, and law enforcement. No exceptions.
We recognize that some are concerned about self-defense, and we understand why emotions are high. However, fighting back physically is exactly what this administration and its allies want. They are looking for any reason to paint us as aggressors, to further restrict our rights, and to justify crackdowns on protests across the country. If violence breaks out, more people will get hurt—including the LGBTQIA+ youth who will be marching alongside us. This is not about being passive—it’s about being strategic, united, and unwavering in our message.
We are already preparing for opposition from right-wing groups and known online figures, and we will not stoop to their level. We stand tall. We stand firm. We fight with our presence, our voices, and our unwavering truth.
There is already an active push to restrict First Amendment demonstrations—we will not give them a reason to ban them outright. D.C. itself is under the looming threat of losing Home Rule, meaning all local governance could shift to the Executive Branch. If that happens, Trump will effectively have direct control over the city. Let’s not make that nightmare a reality.
For those concerned about safety, we are taking every precaution. We will have trained marshals, our own security teams, and the full support of the DC Metro Police. If members of Congress join us, expect additional presence from the Capitol Police.
While we recognize the history of law enforcement’s treatment of the LGBTQIA+ community, we honor our past, but we refuse to be bound by it—we're marching forward, our power is now.
We are coming together on April 30th not just as a protest, but as a show of unity, resilience, and strength. We are sending a message to Trump, the House and Senate GOP, and every person trying to erase us:
We are strong. We will not be silenced. We are not going anywhere.
We are human, too.
Let that be the message they hear. Loud. Clear. Unshakable.
Media Contact:
Josh G. (He/Him)
Co-Founder
We March, We Rise