See how Utahns gathered for ‘Good Trouble’ protests around the state

Scores of Utahns gathered at the state Capitol Thursday to protest the Trump administration, capping a day of demonstrations around the state and nation that marked the fifth anniversary of the passing of former congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis.

People brought folding chairs to sit in Salt Lake City’s evening summer heat or sought shade on the Capitol steps as they held signs and listened to speakers.

The 10 events planned around Utah — including in St. George, Moab, Ogden and Logan — were part of the “Good Trouble” day of action organized by a national coalition to honor Lewis.

The earliest was held in St. George, where over 50 people met at the Washington County administrative building.

“We’re out here in protest of ICE and recent actions against immigrants,” said Cindy Hansen, organizer of the St. George gathering and a member of the Southern Utah Indivisible steering committee. “We want to protect our community, and we’re trying to bring awareness to that.”

Throughout the morning demonstration in St. George, cars honked as they drove by and attendees broke into chants, yelling, “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist U.S.A.”

Attendees included parents, kids, retirees and more. Jo Nebeker, a resident of Ivins, said she wouldn’t let her oxygen tank hold her back. So she hauled the tank, a green folding lawn chair and a bright yellow sign that said, “Wake Up Pay Attention” to the protest.

In Moab, about 27 people met at the Grand County public library, where a film screening and discussion were planned.

In Logan, residents held a community potluck picnic in Merlin Olsen Central Park as organizers offered information about the Aug. 12 non-partisan primaries in Cache County. In Heber City, organizers planned to collect donations and raise awareness for the Back 2 School Basics backpack program at Heber Market Days.

Other events were scheduled in Brigham City, Ogden, Orem, Ephraim and Cedar City.