The 250th celebration of the Battle of Lexington, which marked the beginning of the American Revolution for independence, was not simply a celebratory event for many attendees; it stood as a reminder and a reason for many to protest against current events that they saw as a threat to democracy.

Many protest groups arrived in Lexington for its 250th celebration, believing that the values of patriotism seen in the militia men on the Battle Green years ago must be instilled in further generations. They spoke out at the event, holding up various signs and banners to bring awareness to the idea that the same democracy our forefathers fought for is a privilege for individuals to have, and that it must be protected. 

“Well, this country has been founded on very fundamental principles, and they are in threat. As you can see, my sign says Patriots are Wanted, making this the rebirth place of democracy. I feel like democracy is on the way to being a lost cause, and we need to really pull together to take courage and make extraordinary efforts. And so my sign is keeping with the spirit and values of the day that we need” Daniel, a member of the protest group Indivisible, said.

The protestors at the celebration spoke valuable truths, many agreeing on the importance of encouraging the same patriotism and advocacy in later generations, especially in young adults. Despite the challenges that come with speaking out, the protestors hoped to inspire young people to stand up for their beliefs, as they bridge the gap between now and the future of America.

“Many of us are scared to stand up because we fear retribution, and that’s an honest fear. But retribution is not effective, and everyone stands up. So when one person stands up, three more do it, when 30,000 people stand up, tens of thousands stand up. So we all need to do that, and this is one way of becoming visible in that fight,” Daniel said.

The protest group Indivisible, which includes many active members like Daniel, works to make a difference through legislation and bills passed at all levels of government. Interested students can participate in political activism through groups such as Indivisible, where they can advocate for changes in their communities that support their values.

“We all see issues that our legislators may not be courageous enough to act on. And so when we are aware of that, we can communicate with our larger group. The secret to having influence with legislators is to make a phone call and have a specific consequence that you can name, a way in which the policy is affecting you or someone you know. Then they have a story to tell, and they have the means to act on your opinions as well. So it’s important to phone call and to have a story that has meaningful consequences,” Daniel said.

Many activist groups were prevalent around town during the celebrations, and they all encouraged young adults to get involved and stay informed when it came to decisions made by governments that impact their lives. They expressed that students and young adults need to be more aware of their role as citizens of their country and be active in preserving their and others’ rights. 

“Stand up for our own democracy to become more engaged as citizens. Make posters. Speak up in public. Talk to people, including people who disagree with you, and try to have a civilized conversation. And it’s very important to start by just staying informed and being aware of your sources, and always check your sources, because so much propaganda is out there,” Tom and Catherine Riley, two activists at the celebration, said. 

The Lexington 250 celebration was a strong reminder of the values of democracy and advocacy that the minutemen of Lexington fought and died for. These values remain relevant today, and the continued fight to protect what the militia fought for 250 years ago is what many of these protestors currently stand up for. Their message is to remind others of the importance of advocacy and standing for one’s rights as it has historically been done in Lexington. 

“You’re getting out and speaking to people who come from different backgrounds and asking specifically about what is very important in getting back and thinking about it. It is important if you can go to protests and speak to other like-minded people, I would say, first and foremost, to stay informed and curious,” Riley and Tom said.