Less than 1,000 people gathered at spots across Hampton Roads on Monday for the latest round of protests against the Trump administration.

The actions were smaller than other rounds held earlier this year. As in previous protests, the largest was at the Williamsburg-James City Courthouse. Organized by Williamsburg-JCC Indivisible, roughly 400 people took part in the event, one of over 1,000 nationwide “Workers over Billionaires” protests held on the holiday.

“Instead of just planning a barbecue, we continue to stand strong with collective action,” said Heather Meaney-Allen, founding member of Williamsburg-JCC Indivisible.

Carrie Roberts, a Toano resident, said she never protested in her life until this past March. The 70-year-old said she felt it was time to raise her voice for herself and for whoever choosing to listen.

“I just can’t sit by and watch what’s going on,” Roberts said.

Several signs were on display at the Williamsburg protest. (James W. Robinson/The Virginia Gazette)

James City County residents Mac and Kathy Mestayer also protested at the event. Mac Mestaye, 77, said he doesn’t see the humor in the administration anymore, calling the president “very dangerous.” Kathy Mestayer, 70, said it was great to have a feeling of solidarity, noting they both attended the No Kings protest in June.

“Because right now, the feeling of hopeless is kind of strong,” she said.

Williamsburg resident Edward Hopkins, 68, said he “can’t stand” how the president and his administration are operating the country.

“It’s not about conservative or Republican, it’s not about Democrats or liberals, it’s about a man who hasn’t any business being the President of the United States,” Hopkins said.

Demonstrators gather at the intersection of Mercury Boulevard and Armistead Avenue in Hampton Monday afternoon, Sept. 1, 2025. (Brian Root/Daily Press)

In Norfolk, roughly 200 people gathered Monday morning in Town Point Park to listen to speakers and march along Boush Street and Brambleton Avenue. In Chesapeake, about 90 people turned out at the intersection of Battlefield Boulevard and Volvo Parkway to wave signs. In Hampton, about 80 people did the same at one of the busiest intersections in the city, Mercury Boulevard and Armistead Avenue.

James W. Robinson, 757-799-0621, james.robinson@virginiamedia.com

https://www.dailypress.com/2025/09/01/hampton-roads-labor-day-protests/