Sunday, March 22nd, 2025 was a march in Cincinnati to protest the capture of Mahmoud Khalil. The march began at Fountain Square with speakers, some singing, and some chants.

The police were out in force. There were cops all over the place. There half a dozen cruisers, a paddy wagon, like 5 bike cops, and a few dudes in full SWAT gear. It was a noticeable difference compared to International Women’s Day. There was even a cop from the “Civil Disturbance Response Team”, whatever that is. There are always more cops for pro-Palestine events.

Armed Police officer in a Civl Disturbance Response Team hoodie

The police presence didn’t stop the supporters from showing up.

A sign that reads Got Healthcare Workers? Gaza Doesn’t.

As we marched we went past this street preacher babbling about whatever it is those assholes babble about. When one of his buddies waved his bible at us, my partner stared him down and he walked off. The preacher stayed put, but he was drowned out by the loudspeakers and the chants.

Protesters marching on the street.

We marched a couple of miles and ended up back at Fountain Square. The sun was close to setting and a few Muslims wanted to pray. They asked the marshals to form a perimiter around them, and we obliged. And wouldn’t you know it! The preacher came back to film the prayers and remind us for the millionth time that Jesus loves us. One of the other medics had a whistle and they blew it next to the guy to mess up his audio.

I have dealt with these types before, and I think it might be dudes from the same group. When I was a medic at Richmond Pride in June of 2024, this group showed up to do their thing, and the same group also harassed Lebanon Pride in July of 2024. I do my best to stand in front of them so they know not to come any closer, while also encouraging people to not engage with them.

It’s always something on the streets of Cincinnati.