By SDCN Staff
Oceanside, CA–Demonstrators gathered in downtown Oceanside on Saturday for a peaceful protest calling for government accountability, protection of democratic values, and opposition to recent federal policies under the Trump administration.
The rally, titled “Together We Stand,” was held near the Civic Center and along Coast Highway. Organized by the Democratic Club of Carlsbad and Oceanside (DEMCCO), Indivisible 49, and People of Peace and Justice, the event drew attention to what participants described as executive overreach, threats to civil liberties, and unjust immigration enforcement.
Speakers sharply criticized recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in North County, claiming federal agents are targeting law-abiding, working immigrants in aggressive and harmful ways.
“I’m here because I’m outraged that unmasked, unidentified armed men are detaining our non-criminal neighbors—people who are simply working jobs that many others won’t,” said Larry Warner, a co-organizer. “ICE is terrorizing communities to meet quotas, and the fear they’re instilling is forcing essential workers to stay hidden, threatening both lives and the economy.”
Michele Cyr, an event organizer, warned of sweeping impacts of the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill.” She voiced her opposition to proposed federal budget cuts, particularly healthcare and food assistance programs.
“It includes more than $1.2 trillion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade,” Cyr said. “That means 11.8 million people could lose health insurance, thousands of lives are at risk, and rural hospitals and nursing homes may shut down. It’s unconscionable.”
Cyr also noted that proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could affect up to five million Americans who rely on it for food.
“The cruelty of this is unimaginable,” she added.
After the rally, attendees marched peacefully down Coast Highway, holding signs and chanting. Many passing motorists showed support with honks and waves.
