On March 31, 2025, an article was published on The Nation’s website discussing the growing defiance movement against former President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. As part of this movement, a significant protest referred to as the “Tesla Takedown” was held in New York. Additionally, a Zoom training session known as the “Resistance Lab” was attended by many individuals seeking to learn the principles of nonviolent resistance. The protest was part of a broader day of action targeting 253 Tesla locations worldwide, opposing Musk’s government initiatives.
During the New York protest, held in the Meatpacking District, participants expressed their dissent against Trump’s governance and Musk’s policies under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). At the height of the protest, the crowd reached approximately 1,000 people. The day’s events comprised individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Amazon workers, parents with children, and pet owners, all gathering to vocalize opposition to current political dynamics. The demonstration also featured a confluence with the ACT UP movement’s 38th anniversary march, celebrating past efforts for HIV and AIDS research activism.
Resistance to the Trump-Musk administration is further seen in various other demonstrations and coordinated efforts to raise awareness about potential threats to social programs such as Social Security. The issue of unity was highlighted during the protest, especially regarding different focus areas among protestors, exemplified by some disagreement over chants related to Palestine.
The article also described the atmosphere of nonviolence at the New York protest and the strategic approach embraced by activists to manage the potential rise in counterprotests and violence. This was supported by a discussion in a Resistance Lab hosted by Representative Pramila Jayapal, who detailed methods for creating nonviolent resistance movements.
The global democratic recession and the shrinking number of democratic nations amidst mounting autocracy were themes addressed by Erica Chenoweth during the training session. Drawing from historical pro-democracy movements, Chenoweth emphasized the importance of a robust grassroots mobilization.
The piece concluded by highlighting the necessity of continued activism and cooperation across diverse groups in resisting autocratic governance, underscoring the potential of strategic organization and mass participation in effecting political change.
