Authorities dismantled a peace vigil that had stood outside the White House for over four decades, following an order from President Donald Trump. The removal occurred on March 15, 2024, as part of an initiative to clear homeless encampments in Washington, D.C. The vigil, which had been a symbol of anti-war sentiment, was reportedly categorized by officials as a shelter rather than a protest, a classification contested by those involved.
Philipos Melaku-Bello, a volunteer who has participated in the vigil for many years, stated that the Park Police executed the removal early on Sunday morning. He argued that the vigil, which featured signs advocating for nuclear disarmament, should not have been classified alongside homeless encampments. “The difference between an encampment and a vigil is that an encampment is where homeless people live,” Melaku-Bello explained. “As you can see, I don’t have a bed. I have signs, and it is covered by the First Amendment right to freedom of speech and freedom of expression.”
Context of the Removal
The White House confirmed the dismantling of the vigil, asserting that it posed a hazard to visitors and the surrounding areas. This action is part of a broader strategy initiated by the Trump administration to increase federal oversight of policing in the capital, which began last month. The administration has characterized these efforts as necessary for the “beautification” of Washington, D.C.
Melaku-Bello has indicated that he is seeking legal advice regarding what he perceives as a violation of civil rights. He expressed concern that the labeling of the vigil as an encampment was a deliberate tactic to align with the political agenda of the Trump administration. “They’re choosing to call a place that is not an encampment an encampment just to fit what is in Trump’s agenda of removing the encampments,” he stated.
History of the Vigil
The vigil originated in 1981 when activist William Thomas established it to advocate for nuclear disarmament and peace. It is widely regarded as the longest continuous anti-war protest in United States history. Following Thomas’s death in 2009, Melaku-Bello and other supporters have maintained the vigil, ensuring it remains visible to the public.
The issue gained heightened visibility recently when Brian Glenn, a correspondent for the conservative network Real America’s Voice, brought it to Trump’s attention during a White House event. Glenn described the blue tent as an “eyesore” and claimed it had transformed from an anti-nuclear protest to a broader anti-American statement. Trump, reportedly unaware of the vigil prior to the event, responded decisively, instructing his staff, “Take it down. Take it down today, right now.”
Melaku-Bello refuted claims made by Glenn regarding the condition of the vigil, particularly allegations of rat infestations and security risks associated with potential weapon concealment. “No weapons were found,” he clarified, emphasizing that no visible signs of vermin were present as the Park Police dismantled the structure.
The removal of this long-standing symbol of protest has sparked discussions about civil liberties and the rights of individuals to express their views in public spaces. As the legal implications of this action unfold, the future of similar protests remains uncertain in the current political landscape.
