Washington — In what long-time peace activists are calling an abrupt escalation, federal law enforcement and National Park Service officials removed much of the White House Peace Vigil from Lafayette Square tonight at about 7:30 p.m., following direct orders from President Donald J. Trump.
Shortly before the removal, the park was temporarily closed due to the arrival of President Trump aboard Marine One. U.S. Park Police then informed vigil keepers that if they momentarily left the park, even for brief intervals, they would be required to take all their materials with them each time. When volunteers attempted to comply, removing themselves temporarily from the park, officers moved in and seized protest materials, including the tent-like structure that has sheltered books, signs, banners, and supplies.
The order to dismantle came after Brian Glenn, a correspondent with Real America’s Voice, raised the vigil in a White House setting, calling it “an eyesore” and suggesting it had become “anti-America” and “anti-Trump.” According to reports, upon hearing the criticism, Trump instructed his aides: “Take it down, right now.”
The Peace Vigil, started in 1981 by activist William Thomas and maintained continuously by volunteers, is considered the longest unbroken protest in U.S. history. It has stood for over four decades as a symbol of nuclear disarmament and global peace.
In past removals, authorities have taken down parts of the vigil—especially its sheltering canopy or tarp—when the site was found to be unattended or in violation of National Park Service rules. But tonight’s removal appears to stem directly from a presidential order combined with recent conservative media criticism. Volunteers argue that the vigil’s materials are protected expression under the First Amendment and that they are not a homeless encampment.
Activists immediately condemned the action, saying it was a violation of free speech. Philipos Melaku-Bello said that no evidence of a security threat had ever been shown. Supporters rushed back to reassemble what they could after the removal. Meanwhile, critics — including some elected officials — say the vigil has over time become a de facto permanent installation that may violate federal park regulations.
Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton defended the vigil, saying that even if it is inconvenient or unsightly to some, peaceful speech in front of the White House is protected by the Constitution.
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