LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – Protesters took to bridges over Interstate 75 from Cincinnati to Toledo on Monday to voice their concerns about democracy in America.
The event, called the “I-75 Democracy Drive,” included local Democrats in Allen County who walked to the Breese Road overpass to display two large banners, several signs and American flags for drivers to see. One banner read “Release the Files,” referring to the Jeffrey Epstein case, while the other said “Protect Free Speech.” While on the bridge, participants shared more details about their goals.
“We got the "Release the Files" sign up because we want to keep focus on the Epstein Scandal, who was involved in the sexual assault and abuse of women and girls, and we want to keep pressure on our federal leaders for transparency,” says Corrie Dunlap, Central Committee Co-Chair, Allen County Democratic Party.
“Trump ran on releasing the Epstein files. A lot of Americans are very concerned about it. When he ran on releasing those files, he said he would, and now, he's in office. He said it's a democratic hoax. If you run on releasing those Epstein files, we expect to have those promises met,” says Sebastian Baughn, Lead Organizer for 50-50-1 Lima.
“This one says "Protect Free Speech" over here, so for this, it pertains specifically to the Jimmy Kimmel thing, Trump insinuating he wanted Jimmy Kimmel off the air a couple weeks ago, and then it happening a day after he made a joke on his comedian show. It's just a little bit questionable,” Baughn adds.
“We are not afraid to speak up, and that we hope we motivate other people to also not be afraid to speak up and to get out here and to protect our democracy, our democratic republic,” Dunlap adds.
Organizers Dunlap and Baughn said another protest is planned in downtown Lima in mid-October for the No Kings National Rally.
