Update on the DC Occupation After A Year

Update: It has been a year now since the Trump Adminsitration has occupied Washington, DC. We continue to see the National Guard mobilized from across the country to patrol our streets, train stations, and public parks. The continued occupation of Washington DC demonstrates the urgency of self-determination that’s needed represented by statehood. Now more than ever we need to fight for true representation, end the occupation of Washington, DC and pass statehood now! On August 11th, the White House invoked a section of the Home Rule Act, federalizing the DC Metro Police and deploying 800 National Guard troops throughout the city, citing public safety concerns. Since 2023, crime rates have consistently decreased, and this year alone marks the second-lowest crime rate since 1966. He then dropped this pretense and stated he occupied the city “preemptively.” The impact of this declaration is already affecting the houseless community, who must decide between relocating outside of the city, staying in shelters, or committing themselves to addiction or mental health services. If they refuse, they will face fines or imprisonment. Advocates fear that the tactics employed in DC bear remarkable resemblance to the immigration sweeps and civil rights abuses being seen across the country as ICE invades and terrorizes immigrant communities. Protestors have taken to the streets demanding an end to the occupation of DC and the attacks on their community members. We are calling on the faith community to act—use our voices and platforms to demand an end to the occupation of DC, protect the vulnerable, sign petitions, and call our representatives. Take action today In Faith and Resistance, Adam Russell Taylor President, Sojourners Copyright © 2025 Sojourners. All rights reserved. Email: sojourners@sojo.net | Tel.: 202.328.8842