Over 100 show up for May Day protest in Westfield

Carlene Roberts of Feeding Hills, Sue Barnett of Westfield, Teagan Tingley and Jan Tingley, Feeding Hills.
Reminder Publishing photo by Amy Porter

WESTFIELD — Over 100 area residents showed up for a May Day protest at Park Square Green, holding signs that read “Defend Democracy,” “Hands off Libraries, Unions, Schools” and “Resist.”

Since March, small groups have been conducting protests on the green every Tuesday from 4-5 p.m., and those who have been participating were encouraged by the numbers.

Chia Ros-Sibulkin of Russell, one of the organizers for the grassroots group “No Kings Westfield,” spoke briefly during the event.

“We’re here until someone who doesn’t want to be king is president,” she said, adding that to her, being an American means hearing five different languages “singing” in her ears when she goes out.

“We’re fortunate to be protesting in a state where the Revolution was born,” she continued, adding that the tea thrown into Boston Harbor would be worth $1.75 million today.

“Keep the force of Revolution alive,” Ros-Sibulkin said.

People in the group participated for a number of reasons. Westfield cousins Gail Bean, a retired nurse, held a sign that read, “Livable Wages for all Workers,” and Mary Ann Babinski, a retired school teacher, “Hands Off Libraries, Unions, Schools.”

Kate and Ross Powell of Southwick were there to “protect and defend democracy,” and Kate McElligott of Ludlow, was advocating for the National Parks.

At one point, Lois Pare of Westfield spread her arms wide to embrace the crowd; at another, she was proudly waving the American flag. “I’m 73 and this is my first rally,” Pare said, adding, “We’ve got to do something.”

Many cars drove by honking loudly in support of the protesters, while others showed their displeasure in various ways. The group was not deterred.

Jordan of Westfield stood next to a banner that read, “Join Us Every Tuesday 4 to 5 p.m. ‘People Over Kings.’”