Doug Porter’s Guide to protests, actions, events, vigils

Here we are in year two of Trump II, and you’d have to be blind to say the administration hasn’t flooded the zone with Project 2025 schemes, would-be Presidential monuments, Racism, and lies like nobody’s ever seen before.

From day one it’s been difficult for non-MAGA types to comprehend and react to the pace of administration actions. Broken down into their actual components, they include:

Overriding the checks and balances in the political and legal systems
Successfully neutering the legislative branch through fear and favors.
Reorganizing the executive branch to be solely dedicated to the whims of a madman
Deconstructing the post-WWII international order
Implementing a pay for play pyramid for business with Trump’s family at the top
Creating divides in cultural, intellectual, and social institutions
Suppressing science
Rewriting history and suppressing Freedom of the Press
Legitimizing the notion of inequality as a given.
Favoritism for specific types of Christian nationalism

I’m sure discerning readers can come up with other examples, and they’ll be right.

Using the Supreme Court’s shadow docket, in addition to limiting the scope of injunctions, lower courts are effectively being hemmed in as people seek justice from the legal system. And the Congress is a joke with enough Democrats wearing blinders when it comes to authoritarian destruction of the institutions of Democracy, so that opposition is diluted or compromised.

On top of all that, it’s important to recognize that our national descent into dictatorship is based on the desires and needs of the over-privileged uber wealthy in this country. Spend enough time reading through the helter-skelter release of the Epstein documents and it’s impossible to ignore the scope of corruption and depravity. Roughly a dozen countries –not including the US– are now looking into how they were manipulated or compromised. If you need guideposts, look at what’s coming out of Great Britain, where the government may well fall, and Poland, where they are convinced their national security was compromised.

In our country, the path to freeing ourselves from the onerous descent into authoritarian ‘managed’ democracy lies with the actions of everyday citizens. Think of our resistance as a dining table, where everything served up will constitute a satisfying experience at the end.

The “ability of people to organize large-scale participation and build momentum” is essential, and accomplishing that requires lots of smaller scale actions, from wringing whatever good can be had from elected officials, to visibility protests on street corners and overpasses, to building community through shared resources, to acts of civil disobedience, and active documentation of oppressive tactics. All of those things feed into large scale protests, and the next scheduled nationwide event is No Kings Day III on March 28.

Don’t be a doubter. The insufferables who would advocate for a change of power from their keyboards are projecting weakness and a lack of common sense. If there’s anything to be learned from the multitude of ways freedom movements have been compromised and corrupted, it’s that the singular hero is never the answer, even when folklore claims otherwise.

The people, united, can never be defeated. So find your protest perch and go there; the interaction you’ll find there is fuel for freedom fighters.

Give love a chance at the Turning up the Noise protest on Feb. 5, 2026 at Oceanside Civic Center/Darla Nyren

A San Diego Resistance Calendar. Every Protest Counts.

I check the links for announced actions and events every week, along with surfing the pages of progressive groups and allies. No doubt, some events will get missed. Reach out to me and I’ll remedy that problem when I post next week.

Actions

Greg Bovino Welcoming Committee (Saturday, February 14, 9am-2pm) El Centro (exact location to be announced) The Trump Administration has relieved Greg Bovino of his position leading the Department of Homeland Security, sending him back to his previous post at the El Centro Border Patrol Office. We want to be sure that Mr. Bovino has a memorable welcome back, and knows exactly how much we have missed him.

Valentine’s Day was the chosen day from our poll – so we will be driving out hate with LOVE! We will be inviting guests from all across Southern California to meet us in El Centro and show them just how many of us are paying attention and won’t be silent. Hosted by Activist San Diego. SIGN UP

ICE OUT OF SAN DIEGO Courage in Community (Thursdays, 880 Front Street, San Diego- a weekly outlet protesting the atrocities of the Trump administration. This is more than a protest! It’s a stand for dignity, justice, and the right of every family to live free from fear. Bring your friends, your signs, and your voice. Together, we can show that San Diego stands for community, not cages. (SD Labor Council Event) SIGN UP

ICE Out For Good Oceanside (Wednesday, February 11) 4 – 5:30pm) Oceanside Civic Center, 330 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside. Turn Up The Noise: Together We Are Making A Difference. Stand together for justice, our immigrant community, and against the cruelty of ICE. SIGN UP

Fallbrook Weekly Rally (Wednesdays 2:30-4:30pm) Join us for our weekly rally at the corner of South Mission Road and Ammunition Road in front of Starbucks. Enough is enough! The murders of Renée Good and Alex Pretti cannot be ignored. Every American needs to speak out in defense of our Democratic values

Feet on the Street Santee (Wednesdays, Noon-1:30) Trolley Square at Santee Town Center, 9888 Mission Gorge Rd, NE corner of Mission Gorge Rd and Cuyamaca, Santee. We are a friendly group looking to grow with more Santee residents joining us in standing up for democracy, free speech and the constitution. I+ SIGN UP

Wynola Rallies (Sundays 1pm) In front of Wynola Mom’s Pies Hwy 78/79 Wynola
Brought to everyone by Julian Indivisible SIGN UP

Weekly Lakeside For Democracy: An Economy and Health Care For All (Fridays, 10-11:30am) Winter Gardens Blvd and Wintercrest Dr., Best to park in the Albertson’s parking lot, closest to the street side to make sure we don’t crowd customers. I+ RSVPBring a poster, sign, flag, and a friend (or make a new friend.) Be prepared to smile and wave at passers-by. Everyone who cares about and respects others is welcome. We are a friendly bunch.

Ramona Resist Protest (Sundays, 11am – 1pm) 10th & Main Street, Ramona. Just show up.

POWAY Blue Corner Indivisible Group (Sundays,11am-12:30pm) Poway and Community Roads. Some of us stand on the south-east corner, while others march around to all 4 corners as the light changes, so you can get your steps in for the day or not… It’s up to you! Bring your sign(s) or flag(s) and join us as we defend our democracy… Together, we are strong enough to beat this regime. Together, we are indivisible! I+ SIGN UP

OCCUPY OTAY Sunday Action (Sundays 2-4pm) Otay Mesa Detention Center, 7488 Caizada de la Fuente, San Diego. Bring a sign, FRIENDS, MUSIC, Your Voice. Peaceful Gathering. Sponsored by Activist San Diego, Borderlands for Equity, SD BIKE.

Save Our Democracy Del Mar! (Saturdays, 11am-Noon) Del Mar Civic Center, 1050 Camino Del Mar Join Democracy Defenders of Del Mar’s weekly rallies. Stop the Trump takeover! Raise awareness of the current threats to our democracy! Each week we bring bold signs proclaiming our concerns: police state tactics; cuts to MediCal, medical research, voting rights and more. No profanity please! I+ SIGN UP

Stand Up California (Saturdays, 12:30-2pm) Location revealed on SIGN UP Very peaceful protest against violence by ICE, CBP, National Guard and military. Bring signs, costumes, American flags, bells, whistles, convictions and courage. No signs with inflammatory pictures or curse words. No yelling back at harassers. No resisting arrest. This increases the violence of the reaction against us, endangering yourself and fellow protestors. Get Up, Stand Up! We are on the right side of history!

Twice Weekly El Cajon Rallies: Feet on the streets in defense of Democracy(Thursdays & Saturdays, 11am-12:30pm) Fletcher Parkway and Magnolia El Cajon HANDS OFF: Our bodies Our healthcare Our public lands Our education Our human rights. Hosted by Indivisible North County San Diego I+ SIGN UP

Weekly San Marcos Rallies (Thursdays, 3-4:30pm) Jack in the Box 717 San Marcos Blvd. Bring a friend or 10! This is a great event for newbies to attend. We will have a good time, make new friends and let off a little built up steam. I+ SIGN UP

Bonita Feet on the Streets against all things Trump (Tuesdays,10-11am) Otay Lakes Road & Bonita Road.) The more corners we are seen at, the more people wake up. The more people see that others care enough to fight democracy, the more they will be inclined to wake up and help us! I+ SIGN UP

Bonita Feet on the Streets against all things Trump – (Wednesdays, 9:30-11am) Otay Lakes Road & Bonita Road, Bonita CONTINUE BRINGING YOUR SHELF STABLE PANTRY ITEMS in 2026. Because of all the chaos with SNAP and government shutdowns, our local food bank is having a hard time keeping up with demand –this is the time of year where so many struggle even more– let’s help them help our community!** I+ SIGN UP

Bonita Feet on the streets against all things trump (Thursdays, 10-11am) Bonita Road & Otay Lakes Road Bonita. Bring a shelf stable item to help support the Food Bank – they continue to struggle more than ever — let’s help them help our community! I+SIGN UP

ICE OUT OF ESCONDIDO (Saturday, February 28, 10am-Noon) 1200 E Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA . Our community in Escondido will join people across the country in demanding that businesses and public places take responsibility for what is happening on their premises. We will gather on East Valley Parkway to honor Carlos Roberto Montoya, who was killed during an ICE raid at a commercial location in Southern California, and to stand with all those who have been detained, terrorized, or abducted in and around businesses and public spaces nationwide. This day of action is our chance to make our voices heard. SIGN UP

ESCONDIDO! Power Of the People (Tuesdays 10:30am – Noon) North Broadway & East Lincoln Parkway, Escondido. Now is the time to demonstrate the Power of the People. Join us in peaceful protest to raise awareness and encourage local constituents to engage civically, stay informed, and contact their representatives. Bring your flags, signs, statement clothing, and voices to bring light to what is most important to you about the actions of the current administration. Also recommend: water, umbrella and/or hat for sun shade. I+ SIGN UP

ESCONDIDO DEFENDS DEMOCRACY! Weekly Protest (Thursdays, 3pm-4:30pm) West Felicita Avenue & South Centre City Parkway, Escondido. Join us in peaceful public protest during evening rush hour to take a stand and Defend Democracy in the United States. Bring your signs, statement clothing, and voices. Also recommended: hydration, hat or umbrella, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc. Please DO NOT park at the Vons Fuel Station on the SE corner. I+ RSVP

ESCONDIDO Democracy Defenders (Fridays, 10:30am – Noon) Corner of Broadway and State Highway 78) Rallies are a great way to meet other like-minded community members. They remind us that we aren’t alone and it feels good to be civically engaged. Action is the antidote to despair. We guarantee you will feel better about the state of affairs when you leave this event. Brought to you by Indivisible North County San Diego I+ SIGN UP

Turn up the Noise Protest on Feb. 5, 2026 attracted around 80 protestors to the Oceanside Civic Center. Following the rally, the group marched to the Regal Cinema steps, continuing chants and carrying signs advocating for immigrant rights, ICE accountability, and humane pathways to citizenship/Darla Nyren

Rancho Bernardo Rally for our Rights! (First and third Saturdays each month 11am-12:30pm) Bernardo Center Drive & Rancho Bernardo Road San Diego. Rancho Bernardo and Poway! Join us for a sidewalk rally. Bring signs and a folding chair if you need one. Bring a friend or 10! This is a great event for newbies to attend. We will have a good time, make new friends and let off a little built up steam. I+ SIGN UP

Chula Vista Feet on the Streets against all things Trump (Saturdays, 10-11) 598 H St Chula Vista. We need more bodies on the streets with us, BUT this corner has a lot of interaction and a lot of good energy – and, the bus stop neighbors are starting to get used to us being there and engaging with us! I+ RSVP

Peaceful Protest – At the Kook Statue (Sundays, Noon-2pm) Encinitas I+

Support Ukraine Rally at Balboa Park: (Sundays 2-4pm) Join Shield of Freedom in front of the El Cid statue and Prado Pavilion; 1549 El Prado. We welcome all individuals who stand with Ukraine. INFO

Pacific Beach: Take Action For Democracy! (Saturday, February 7, 10-11am) Corner of Ingraham St. and Crown Point Drive San Diego. Join us for our monthly Take Action for Democracy sign-waving rally in Pacific Beach! Let’s make some noise, share some hope, and remind everyone passing by: Democracy is worth defending — and it starts right here, with us. SIGN UP

La Mesa Protect Social Security Rally & Protest (Tuesdays, 10:30 -11:45am) Social Security Administration Offices, 7961 University Ave La Mesa. Bring your signs in support of Social Security, and make sure to bring a hat, and your own water. We’ll be on the sidewalk in a relatively sunny location, so a hat will make a big difference. CFBD I+ RSVP

Mira Mesa Demonstrate for Our Democracy (Tuesdays, 4-6pm) Corners of Mira Mesa Blvd and Westview Pkwy D+ www.BlackMountainDemocrats.org/

CORONADO Friday morning edition Feet on the Streets against all things Trump(Fridays, 7:30-8:30am) Corner of Third and Orange. Coronado is a big hit – it’s a very quiet area with a lot of military. Check out the comments on social media and The Coronado Journal – already this corner is being recognized AND appreciated! I+ SIGN UP

Not My Presidents Day Carlsbad (Monday, February 16 10-11:30am) 101 Hwy near Harbor Fish Cafe, 3179 Carlsbad Blvd. Not My Presidents Day Carlsbad will be a loud, visible action against Trump’s first and second administrations. Trump’s actions were bad in 2017-21. He’s been more destructive in 2025-26, and more unhinged. We must speak out! Come with your Not My Presidents Day and ICE Out signs, and US or other flags. SIGN UP

the People Powered Impeachment Mock Trial (Saturday, February 21, 7-9:30pm) Palomar Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 1600 Buena Vista Dr, Vista. A rigorously scripted, fact-based fully staged reading depicting an imagined impeachment trial of Donald J. Trump. The audience will act as the Senators who vote to convict or acquit. Evidence and witnesses are grounded in the Constitution and current events. We use testimony, documented record, and factual sources to argue the impeachable crimes of Donald J. Trump. We also use modest amounts of humor, satire and irony, as tools for survival and solidarity. This will be a fun and cathartic opportunity of building community and solidarity and to invigorate us for the fight ahead. You can see more information at ppimpeachment.com. SIGN UP

Electoral Activism

Postcarding at the Dove (Thursdays, 9-11am) Carlsbad City Library, 1775 Dove Lane. Save Democracy. Write Postcards. Sign up to write to registered voters in the 48th Congressional District with notification about the new map for the 2026 Elections. We will also create Awareness Whistle Kits and learn about upcoming civic engagement and service opportunities in the area. SIGN UP

Weekly Phone Banking: (Every Tuesday and Thursday through April 7th Election Noon-1:30pm PST) Join Activate America in its first phone bank campaign of 2026 as it prepares for an April 7 state election for swing state Wisconsin’s State Supreme Court. The goal is to encourage voters to vote by mail; no experience needed—training, scripts, and support provided. Volunteers will talk with voters about why Judge Chris Taylor, who will defend reproductive freedom and voting rights, is a smart choice. You’ll also help them request a ballot online plus help them sign up to vote absentee for the entire year so they don’t miss future elections. Register at the included link to participate.

Banners

Encinitas Overpass Banner Visibility Brigade (Sundays 3:30-5pm) Join the weekly Interstate-5 Visibility Brigade Banner Action. Rally at the Requeza overpass near 389 Requeza Street in Encinitas. Street parking is available near the overpass. RSVP at the link above for more information.

Change Begins With ME (CBWM) Overpass Alliance (Mondays, 3 – 4:45pm) Clairemont Drive overpass above I‑1 RSVP

Change Begins With ME Overpass Alliance– (Wednesdays, 3:30-5pm) Clairemont Mesa Blvd overpass at I-15 RSVP

Visibility Brigade Scripps Ranch (Thursdays 3:45 – 5:15) Carroll Canyon Rd over I-15 Contact: GrowTheMvmtSR@proton.me

Visibility Brigade – Weekly Bridge Banner Protest over Highway 94 (Wednesdays, 7:30-9:30am) 22nd St. Bridge over Hwy 94 F Street & 22nd Street For GPS, use 2202 F St. San Diego SIGN UP

Visibility Brigade – Taylor St / Hotel Circle Bridge Over I-8 ( Saturdays, 10am-Noon, Mondays 3pm) Interstate 8 – Exit 3 4490 Taylor St Taylor Street Park and Ride. Bring a sign for cars on the bridge or just wave to the cars passing below. You can also bring a flag, chair, bubbles, music, or anything else you want in order to have a good time! SIGN UP

Feet on the Streets against all things trump – Bridge Brigade Friday edition (Fridays, 3-4pm) Sampson Street Bridge (between Logan & Kearny) in Barrio Logan! navigate to Fish Guts, 2222 Logan Ave. San Diego SIGN UP

La Mesa (Fridays 7-9am) Merritt Blvd over Hwy 125 Contact Email

Witnessing/Vigils

KEEP ICE OUT OF COURTROOMS! (Weekdays when court is in session, 7-11am & 1-4pm) Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building, 880 Front St, San Diego. Nonviolent collective action is how we overcome Trump’s abuses of power. Sign up on site.

Vigil at Main Gate of Camp Pendleton (Daily until further notice, 3-5pm) Meet right outside gate at intersection, 20250 Vandegrift Blvd Oceanside I+ SIGN UP

Peace Vigil for Palestine (Saturdays 10am-Noon) Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and W Point Loma Blvd., OB. Join CODEPINK San Diego, Palestine Pals, and other groups. Wear pink and bring a peace-related poster if you have one! SIGN UP

Learning Experiences

Virtual – Newtown Action Alliance – Lunch and Lobby (Mondays, 9-11am PST) A briefing on the latest updates in the gun violence prevention movement followed by calls to Congress. We will provide everything you need in our toolkit and no prior experience is necessary. RSVP

Virtual – What’s the Plan? with Leah and Ezra of Indivisible National (Thursdays Noon – 1pm PST) The chaos out of the White House is meant to overwhelm us. Our antidote is community. Join Indivisible co-founders Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin every Thursday to break down the week’s biggest political stories, answer your questions, and map out strategies for taking action. This is people-powered politics in real time. Questions can be submitted via the Q&A function during the live event. Register

Virtual-Democracy 101 Training – (Monday, February 23, 6 – 7:30pm) Join us for our Democracy 101 training to learn how you can take part in defending and advancing democracy. Discover how people all over the world have resisted authoritarianism and hear stories and theories of successful efforts to maintain democracy against the march of fascism. Brought to you by San Diego 350. REGISTER

Celebrate Black History Month! “The Black Women Did It” play reading (February 21, 2-5pm) Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way. Features local actors with narrator Ted Lange (The Love Boat), followed by a discussion with Dr. India Pierce and a reception. Free; register at oma-online.org