Tens of thousands of Californians signed up to take to the streets in a nationwide protest known as the “Free America Walkout,” on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Pockets of protestors popped up across Orange County attracting diverse groups of 50 to 60 participants, primarily comprising retired seniors and students, united by their shared concerns over the current political climate.

Fountain Valley

Protesters from Anaheim to Westminster expressed their outrage regarding the mass detention of lawful immigrants and legal residents, along with unwarranted raids carried out by federal agents. “We all deserve safety,” they declared, criticizing the aggressive actions by ICE and CBP federal agents targeting both undocumented and documented residents, as well as the unjust firing of federal workers.

Since President Trump’s second inauguration, the intersection of Imperial Highway and State College Boulevard in Brea has become a regular hub for protests, hosting weekly demonstrations every Monday from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Approximately 60 to 70 protestors show up regularly, but the site has seen swells up to 150 protestors. For the “Free America Walkout” 60 activists caming together to make their voices heard.

Pacifica High School in Garden Grove

At Pacifica High School in Garden Grove, around 100 students staged a walkout, joining dozens of supporters at the busy intersection of Knott and Lampson. The protests were largely ignited by the recent fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, prompting many residents to voice their opposition to what they view as a troubling trend of power abuse and rising fascism in the nation.

When asked about the seemingly low turnout at the Brea location a Fullerton resident responded.

“I think people are in disbelief that their America, their Democracy looks like it is failing. They feel helpless to do anything about it or are terrified to get involved,” she shared. “I am here because it makes me feel uplifted to know that there are so many people who think and feel like me. I don’t feel like I am the only one horrified by what is happening in this country and around the world. I believe that letting others know that they are not alone in this fight is important enough to be here for an hour each week.”

Laguna Beach

The Free America Walkout urged participants to abandon their jobs, schools, and homes in a collective stand against a political climate they find oppressive. Scheduled from 2 to 4 PM, the event highlighted calls for unity against hate, raids, surveillance, corruption, and fear, emphasizing a collective refusal to accept these issues as the new normal. Organizers urged participants to actively combat the abuse of power, support their communities, and act with courage and care.

Looking ahead, organizers are encouraging community members to join them every Monday in February from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the same intersection in Brea, where they engage with over 5,000 cars in a span of just 60 minutes. Interested individuals can RSVP for reminders and additional event details through the event’s page: https://mobilize.us/s/YlMQ0k.