Demonstration held in Sturgis to protest government policies

A demonstration was held March 28 near the intersection of U.S. 12 and Centerville Road in Sturgis, protesting some policies that are unfolding during the early phase of Donald Trump’s second administration. 

An estimated 80 people took part, organizers said. 

Kay Davis and Dianne Gorsuch, among the co-organizers, said participants were encouraged to create signs noting issues that affect them most directly. 

Davis said the preference was to leave it open-ended. 

“Dianne asked if it should be for a specific topic, but we think decisions in the administration are changing so quickly,” Davis said. “We wanted to make it pro-community, rather than ‘anti-Trump.’”

To an extent, signage reflected that. Some placards suggested support for Social Security, veterans rights, human rights and public education. A few were more specific, referencing DOGE and distaste for Elon Musk’s involvement in national politics. 

Davis said the gathering was inspired in part by a recent statewide “bridge takeover” protests, and organizers wanted to bring a similar event to the local level in St. Joseph County. 

This week, Davis said a primary concern of hers is regarding the local economy. 

“Because of recent budget cuts to the Department of Education, there’s a sense of instability with my employment,” Davis told Sturgis Sentinel.  The result of this uncertainty has caused me to cut all unnecessary spending from my budget. This in turn affects local businesses where I used to spend my money. If others are experiencing the same uncertainty, I’m concerned that our local economy will suffer.”

Held at a high-traffic intersection within the city, the group received some taunts from inside passing vehicles, and what appeared to be “honks” of support.