WEST POINT, NY – As former President Donald Trump delivered the 2024 commencement address to roughly 1,000 graduating cadets at the United States Military Academy on Saturday, a large, coordinated protest unfolded on the surrounding land and waters of West Point, sending a strong message of dissent to the historic institution and its guests.
Wearing his signature MAGA cap, Trump spoke at Michie Stadium while hundreds of demonstrators gathered at the Thayer Gate, Stony Lonesome Gate, and across the Hudson River at Garrison Landing. Their presence was both visible and vocal, reinforcing calls to defend democratic values and to resist what many described as creeping authoritarianism.
Coordinated Demonstration at West Point
The day began early under overcast skies and intermittent rain. More than 100 protesters assembled at 7 a.m. at Thayer Gate, hours before Trump’s 10 a.m. address. Demonstrators held signs with messages such as “Go Army – Defend Democracy” and “No Kings, Not Then, Not Now,” a theme echoed by several participants and speakers throughout the day.
Some protesters gathered at Stony Lonesome Gate, where parents of cadets waited in line to enter the academy. While some passersby acknowledged the protest with supportive gestures—smiles, nods, and thumbs-up—others responded negatively, making vulgar gestures and shouting profanities.
Despite the mixed reactions, demonstrators remained peaceful and focused on their message. The protest drew attention from both locals and national observers, underscoring continued political divisions and debate over Trump’s influence on American democratic institutions.
Notable Voices Join the Protest
Among the attendees was Michael Sussman, a Democratic candidate for Orange County executive. He used social media to share images and reflections from the demonstration. “No kings—not then and not now,” Sussman wrote in a Facebook post, alluding to fears about autocratic leadership. He added that many of those attending the graduation had expressed quiet support for the protest’s message.
Referencing the Memorial Day weekend, Sussman remarked,
“I yearn for a peace-making nation which prevents the tragic loss of life we see all around us.”
Hudson River Flotilla Echoes 2020 Protest
Meanwhile, a nautical protest took place just offshore. The sloop Clearwater, a symbol of environmental and civic activism, sailed back and forth on the Hudson River in full view of the academy. It was joined by a flotilla of around 20 kayakers, many of whom waved American flags and held signs echoing the calls for accountability and the preservation of democracy.
The most visually striking feature was a large sailboat bearing a massive banner with a photo of Donald Trump and the word “UNFIT” emblazoned in bold, capital letters. The vessel’s presence mirrored a similar maritime protest during Trump’s 2020 commencement appearance at West Point, which took place during nationwide unrest following the police killing of George Floyd.
Community Engagement at Garrison Landing
Across from the academy, at Garrison Landing, a spirited crowd gathered throughout the morning. Homemade signs, chants, and cheers accompanied the movements of the waterborne protestors. Attendees stopped by an information table, where volunteers handed out badges reading:
“Resist – If not you, who? If not now, when?”
The crowd reflected a range of participants: older activists, military veterans, environmental advocates, and young voters. Many came not only to protest Trump’s presence but to express concern about the future direction of the country and the preservation of democratic institutions.
A Peaceful but Powerful Protest
Though West Point’s commencement proceeded as scheduled, the surrounding demonstration served as a pointed reminder of the contentious political climate in the United States. Protesters emphasized that their efforts were not aimed at cadets or the military itself, but at preserving the foundational principles they believe those institutions are meant to uphold.
The peaceful yet determined tone of the protest mirrored previous demonstrations tied to Trump’s appearances, particularly those concerned with civil rights, racial justice, and democratic integrity.
For many involved, the event was about more than just reacting to one speech—it was about reinforcing civic responsibility and resisting complacency.
Looking Ahead
With the 2024 presidential election season gaining momentum and Trump once again a prominent political figure, the protests at West Point may foreshadow further activism nationwide. As one protester put it:
“This isn’t about left or right. It’s about protecting democracy—for the future of our country, and for the values these cadets swore to uphold.”
For now, as the cadets of West Point march toward military service, the voices from beyond the gates continue to remind them—and the nation—of the weight and meaning of that oath.
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