Peaceful Gathering Planned For Inauguration Day On Golden Gate

The time just prior to this year’s American presidential election has served to highlight the power of social media in politics, as questionable news ran rampant and ‘secret’ groups like Pantsuit Nation brought together like-minded people to share their views and stories.
Ever since the election’s shocking results came out, more and more social media groups have been emerging as people seek solace in those with similar views. One such group recently created is Bridge Together Golden Gate. This is a closed group that was launched on November 9th, just one day after election day. The group was created with the intent to unite Bay Area residents and stage a giant, peaceful gathering on the Golden Gate Bridge. The demonstration is scheduled for the day of the president-elect’s inauguration, January 20th, 2017.

Lisa Sato-Wheaton is the Mill Valley resident who created the group with the support of her company, Satoriteller. Sato-Wheaton explains the intent behind the protest to 7×7, saying, ‘Our goal is not a protest of the outcome of the election, but rather a moment to come together and show the world that love trumps hate, that unity is stronger than division, and that we will never give up. We chose Inauguration Day because of the message it sends on what could be a bleak day for many of us. To be completely clear: This is not a protest. This is a peaceful gathering.’

Sato-Wheaton also clarifies that there is absolutely no intent to block traffic on the Golden Gate during the demonstration. ‘[That] would be an oppositional stand and only perpetuate the anger, division, and negativity. We want to stand together, whether one is driving, standing with us, or watching us around the world, as a symbol of the power of unity and peaceful demonstration. We want to show the world that we are still a beacon of Democracy for all people, regardless of race, class, gender, sexuality, political affiliation, immigration status, and religion.’

“Hands Around Lake Merritt” – A recent peaceful protest in Oakland

Since its inception, the group has amassed over 5,000 members, but the turnout is still unpredictable. Sato-Wheaton and her team have already filed for an Expressive Use Permit for the demonstration, and they expect it to be approved.

About the author

Courtney Holcomb

Editor of The Culture Trip's San Francisco section, Courtney is a writer, manager, yoga instructor, feminist, and arts enthusiast. Attempting to fill her days with as much creativity and humanity as possible, she loves to explore the unique spaces and cultural happenings taking place around her, taking inspiration from them to fill these pages with topics like travel, art, literature, music, wellness, and nature along the way.