Thousands March on Colorado Capitol to Defend Democracy and Human Rights

Story and photos by Paige Miltenberger

This sweltering Saturday afternoon, thousands of people gathered outside the Colorado State Capitol as part of a nationwide “Rage Against the Regime” protest to fight against what they view as increasing threats to constitutional rights under the Trump administration.

The August 2 rally brought together a broad coalition of socialists, communists, anarchists, indigenous activists, veterans, and unaffiliated members of the public, all united in their opposition to ICE, systemic racism, political corruption, and authoritarianism.

The crowd filled the Capitol steps and spilled into the surrounding streets, energized by honks and cheers from passing cars. Hand-painted signs soared above the crowd, demanding justice for Palestine, declaring solidarity with the working class, denouncing billionaires and police brutality, and calling for the release of sealed documents tied to the Epstein case.

Amid the protest, a member of the United Sioux Tribe waved enormous flags in support of Indigenous sovereignty and justice, contributing to the rally’s deeply intersectional message.

The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of urgency and celebration. Protest anthems from bands like Rage Against the Machine and Run the Jewels blasted from portable speakers, while a local marching band played rousing covers, from “Seven Nation Army” to the Palestinian national anthem. Near the main entrance of the Capitol building, rows of EZ-up tents formed a hub of community outreach. Volunteers handed out flyers and invited attendees to connect with local organizations such as the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL), the Freedom Road Socialist Organization (FRSO), Aurora Unidos CSO, and the Denver/Aurora Community Action Committee (DACAC). Leaders from these groups delivered impassioned speeches, calling on attendees to take their protest energy into sustained action through organizing, mutual aid, and political education.

The protest reached its end with a high-energy march through downtown Denver, from the Capitol to Union Station and back. Chants like “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist USA,” and “The people united will never be divided,” echoed off the city’s glass towers, drawing attention from office workers and restaurant-goers, many of whom paused to film or raise a fist in support. 

The message of the day was clear: the people are watching, organizing, and refusing to stay silent.