A People's Revolt: Fighting the Oligarchy in Downtown LA

A Political Woodstock Rocks Grand Park

Imagine 36,000 people, a sea of faces, united in a powerful demonstration against the rise of oligarchical power. This wasn't a scene from a dystopian future but the reality of Downtown Los Angeles on April 12th. A "Fight The Oligarchy" rally, spearheaded by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, transformed Gloria Molina Grand Park into a pulsating hub of resistance, echoing the spirit of Woodstock, but with a decidedly 21st-century cause.

Sanders, taking the stage to thunderous applause, proclaimed, “Your presence here today is making Donald Trump and Elon Musk very nervous.” He underscored the significance of the gathering, calling it the biggest rally yet on their national tour.

This wasn't just a political rally, it was a five-hour Bernie-palooza, a vibrant blend of politics, music, and activism. Union leaders, progressive politicians, and musicians joined forces, igniting the crowd with speeches, chants, and inspiring performances.

"Why music?" Sanders asked the roaring crowd. "Because we’re going to make our revolution with joy!"

A Chorus of Voices for Change

From newly-elected Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, a self-described "queer" Filipina and daughter of undocumented immigrants, to Congressman Maxwell Frost, the first Gen X-er elected to Congress, the rally showcased a diverse range of voices. Jurado, echoing Sanders' analysis of the 2024 election, highlighted the abandonment of the working class by the Democratic Party, a theme that resonated throughout the day. Frost, exuding youthful energy, emphasized the power of the people, urging the crowd to "take to the streets and be loud about it."

Union leaders like Ada Briceno of Unite HERE Local 11 lauded the power of collective action, referencing their successful strike against billionaire hotel owners. Brandi Good of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union invoked the union's storied history, while healthcare workers spoke of their grueling six-month strike against Kaiser, highlighting the ongoing battle for workers' rights.

A Call for Solidarity and Systemic Change

Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez delivered one of the most powerful speeches of the day, denouncing the descent of the country into a "fascist oligarchy.” She condemned the scapegoating of immigrants and trans people, and called for a new system where human needs are prioritized over corporate greed. "Seven unhoused people die on the streets every day in LA," she declared, urging the crowd to fight for a city where everyone has a safe place to sleep.

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, introducing folk icon Joan Baez, called for a fight against "unelected billionaires and petty grifters.” AOC, in her signature fiery style, criticized corruption and dark money in politics, and demanded accountability from elected officials, regardless of party affiliation. "I don't care what party you are," she stated, "I don't take a dime in corporate money and you have me to stand up for you."

Music and Momentum

Interspersed with the political speeches were powerful musical performances. Joan Baez, accompanied by Maggie Rogers, captivated the crowd with classics like “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” and Lennon's “Imagine.” Neil Young, a true rock legend, electrified the audience with “Take America Back” and “Rainbow of Colors.” These performances served as both inspiration and a testament to the power of art in movements for social change.

The Power of the People

Sanders, capping off the day, invoked Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and Roosevelt's call for economic rights, emphasizing the importance of a government "of the people, by the people, and for the people.” He condemned the concentration of wealth in the hands of the few, reminding the audience that the three wealthiest Americans own more than half of the country. Quoting Frederick Douglass, Sanders declared, "Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.” He reminded the audience that the real power lies not with the billionaire class but with the 99%.

The rally concluded with a palpable sense of hope and determination. Attendees, energized and united, left Grand Park ready to continue the fight against oligarchy and for a more just world. As one attendee, Cat, put it, “It was beautiful! Bernie said all the right things.”