BOSTON, July 17, 2025 — Massachusetts is set to become one of the nation’s biggest stages for the “Good Trouble Lives On” rallies, a nationwide protest movement organized to honor civil rights icon John Lewis and oppose policies under former President Donald Trump’s second term.
The event coincides with the fifth anniversary of Lewis’s death and is expected to draw tens of thousands of demonstrators to streets, parks, and city centers across the state. Over 100 rallies are scheduled throughout Massachusetts alone, making it one of the most active states participating in the national day of action.
What Is the “Good Trouble Lives On” Protest?
The phrase “Good Trouble” stems from the late Congressman John Lewis’s lifelong advocacy for civil rights through nonviolent protest. This movement is a coordinated, peaceful national demonstration aiming to resist what organizers describe as:
- Erosion of voting rights
- Authoritarian policies
- Attacks on civil liberties
- Budget cuts to public services
- Criminalization of dissent
More than 1,600 events are expected across the country, organized by progressive groups like Indivisible, MoveOn, and the League of Conservation Voters (LCV).
Key Massachusetts Rally Locations & Times
Boston
- Where: Copley Square (March begins), ending at Liberty Mall, Boston Common
- When: Gathering at 4:30 PM, rally begins at 6:00 PM
- Highlights: March, speeches, music, and mutual-aid drives (collecting supplies for unhoused residents)
Worcester
- Where: Worcester Common
- When: 5:00 PM
- Focus: Grassroots organizing, local policy resistance
Springfield
- Where: Court Square
- When: 5:30 PM
- Speakers: Local educators, activists, youth leaders
Hyannis
- Where: Hyannis Village Green
- When: 6:00 PM
- Notable Feature: Voter registration booths and legal rights education
Reading
- Where: Woburn Common
- When: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Organized by: Indivisible Reading and area activists
What Protesters Are Demanding
The “Good Trouble Lives On” initiative carries five core demands, mirroring much of John Lewis’s legacy and modern civil rights advocacy:
- Restore and expand the Voting Rights Act
- Protect reproductive and LGBTQ+ rights
- End criminalization of protest and dissent
- Reject Trump’s policies and authoritarian rhetoric
- Invest in climate justice, education, and healthcare
Organizers say the rallies are meant to send a message to both state and national leaders that civil liberties are not negotiable.
“We’re standing up for democracy itself,” said Claire Miller, a lead organizer with Indivisible Mass Coalition. “John Lewis taught us that silence is betrayal. This is our time to be loud.”
Mutual Aid and Community Support
Unlike traditional rallies, many “Good Trouble” events will also feature mutual-aid stations collecting items such as:
- Socks
- Snacks
- Water bottles
- First-aid supplies
These will be donated to unhoused communities, especially in Boston and Worcester, where housing crises have worsened.
How to Participate in Good Trouble Lives On Rallies
You don’t have to be in Boston to take part. Here’s how to join the movement:
- Find a local rally via Mobilize.us or event listings on social media
- Bring mutual-aid supplies if you’re attending in person
- Share on social media using hashtags like
#GoodTroubleLivesOn,#DefendDemocracy, and#NoMoreTrump - Volunteer as a marshal or safety coordinator through local organizers
Peaceful Protest Amid Tight Security
With such large gatherings, law enforcement agencies across Massachusetts have increased patrols and security coordination. Boston Police and the MBTA have advised commuters to expect temporary delays near Copley Square and Boston Common between 4–8 PM.
Organizers have emphasized nonviolence, citing the teachings of Lewis and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as core inspirations.
Will the Rallies Be Streamed?
Yes. Many rallies, including Boston’s, will be live-streamed via YouTube and Facebook by partner groups. Virtual attendees can participate in real-time with chat commentary, donation drives, and Q&A panels with speakers.
At the heart of it, the “Good Trouble Lives On” rallies are about standing up for what’s right and looking out for one another—just like John Lewis did. Whether you’re heading to a rally, spreading the word online, or cheering from the sidelines, you’re making a difference.
So grab a sign, bring a friend, and let’s make some good trouble together. Because when we show up, speak out, and support each other, real change happens.
