My husband and I inadvertently started a social group last year. In April 2025, we discussed how we could oppose President Donald Trump. We decided to sit outside the West Jordan City Hall with signs. We are both in poor health. My husband can’t walk at all, and I can only walk around the house. Our visits to the doctor, dentist and therapy appointments make up a large part of our social life. We thought that an hour of sitting and holding signs near home was the best we could manage.
So, we started what we call the West Jordan Freedom Rally. It’s not actually a rally; it’s just a public display of our thoughts about the current political situation. After a few weeks, another person joined us.
Prompting the formation of new social groups is the best thing Trump has done for the country. He is helping to address a problem that has persisted in the United States for decades — the collapse of community.
Attendance at religious meetings, picnics, clubs and other social activities has declined significantly. Political scientist and author Robert Putnam says we are “more disconnected from family, friends and civic structures, leading to negative consequences for civic and personal health.”
Over time, our group has grown. We have come to know and love the people who joined us. We would have never met them while playing on the computer or watching TV.
On March 28, many thousands of people will gather locally across the United States for the No Kings rally. Afterwards, some of them might go out for coffee to discuss their political beliefs and develop friendships.
This is building social capital. Join us. Make a sign, or just come and sit. Bring a chair; it’s allowed.
At the very least, you might make a new friend who shares your political views. You will learn you are not alone, even in Utah.
Sherri Park, West Jordan