Demonstrators Protest Trump’s Proposed Arch Near Arlington National Cemetery
On Thursday morning, demonstrators gathered in Washington, D.C., to oppose President Trump’s proposed arch. The structure is planned to stand in a traffic circle on the bridge connecting the National Mall to Arlington National Cemetery.
Dozens of activists assembled at Memorial Circle during rush hour to express their disapproval of the 250-foot-tall arch. Veterans, retirees, and lawmakers spoke against the arch’s scale, cost, lack of Congressional approval, and intrusion on Arlington National Cemetery. They stood next to a tarp mockup representing the arch, which is claimed to be 32 times taller.
Jon Gundersen, a retired Army veteran and former Foreign Service officer, criticized the arch as inappropriate. He traveled from South Carolina to attend the protest, organized partly by Public Citizen. Gundersen emphasized bipartisan opposition, noting that people see it as a waste of money and not a way to honor veterans.
Protesters voiced concerns over the arch’s impact on Arlington National Cemetery and lamented the lack of input from veterans and gold-star families. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., condemned Trump’s decision, accusing him of dishonoring those who have served.
The White House claims the arch will enhance visitors’ experience at the cemetery and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by American heroes. However, Duckworth suggested funding would be better spent on improving services for veterans.
During the protest, attendees objected to the arch towering over Arlington National Cemetery. Gundersen described the concept as obscene. Amid speeches, supporters chanted “no arch!” and sang “We Shall Overcome.”
Speakers also raised aviation safety concerns, as the arch is situated near a busy airport runway. Additionally, discussion arose about Trump’s plan to house military drones and snipers in the structure, prompting questions about potential targets.
Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., expressed skepticism regarding Trump’s intentions, suggesting national security claims are a tactic to influence court decisions.
The National Capital Planning Commission will soon review the arch proposal as part of the federal approval process. The National Park Service has already dismissed suggestions to relocate the arch.
Charles Birnbaum criticized the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, which recently ended the review process after only two meetings. He mentioned this abrupt termination has happened only twice during his 15 years with the National Park Service. Birnbaum accused the administration of overriding outside voices.
A bipartisan permitting reform bill currently gaining traction could weaken protections for historic sites.
Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., addressed demonstrators, noting efforts to block federal funding for the arch were thwarted by a GOP senator. Protesters pledged not to let the project proceed while preparing for the possibility it might progress.
Julius D. Spain Sr. from the Arlington County Board encouraged continued activism. He announced he would join efforts to dismantle the arch if constructed, eliciting applause.
Beyer highlighted significant public opposition, stating people are ready to protest if construction begins – potentially through tents or hunger strikes.
Congress has a theoretical option to block federal funding for the arch. However, efforts to halt the project and demolish the Kennedy Center were blocked by a single Republican senator earlier in the week.
Sen. Duckworth suggested Republicans could stop Trump’s plans with decisive action. Upcoming midterm elections might shift congressional power – possibly impacting the project’s future.