‘Hands Off!’ protest against Musk and Trump in Calgary one of over 1,200 across the U.S. and world
Posted Apr 5, 2025 10:08 am.
Calgary is hosting one of 1,200 “Hands Off!” Saturday protests against U.S. President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s actions that are creating global uncertainty.
The mobilization effort happening throughout the U.S. on Saturday has been planned by more than 150 groups, including civil rights organizations, labour unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, veterans and fair-elections activists.
“We are hosting a HANDS OFF! event in solidarity with our American neighbours, in Calgary, Alberta,” a post on Reddit reads.
“While some of us may still be frustrated/angry with the USA … we still care about them and don’t want to see democracy destroyed – along with their country!!! They’re our cherished neighbours!”
Other cities in Canada include Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa. Calgary’s protest is slated to happen at the Tesla dealership at 6702 Fairmount Dr SE starting at 1 p.m.
According to the Hands Off! website, non-violent action is a core principle of the movement, saying, “We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.”
These protests are in response to numerous decisions from the Trump administration that have upended several government functions, including the firing of thousands of federal workers and the closing of Social Security Administration field offices.
Additionally, the actions of deporting immigrants, scaling back protections for transgender individuals, and moves to cut funding for health programs are also being cited as reasons.
Musk has played a key role in government downsizing as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE. He says he is saving taxpayers billions of dollars.
As the owner of Tesla, alongside SpaceX and the social media platform X, people displeased with his actions are showing it by retaliating against the car maker.
Tesla stocks have also dropped, with one major investor asking him to step aside. Demonstrations have been happening in the country–but not to a large or major degree. Several incidents have also led to the vandalism of Tesla vehicles.
With files from The Associated Press
