Locals mirror protests nationwide

A small gathering that was part of something bigger occurred in front of the historic Hays County Courthouse on Wednesday at dusk. The “Confront Corruption: Demand Democracy” vigil held in San Marcos was one of more than 100 sunset vigils held across the country. Though only about 15 people attended the San Marcos gathering, the event drew participants from Austin, New Braunfels and San Antonio.

Organizers sent out a press release highlighting developments at the joint press conference U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held in Helsinki. The nationwide event, which included vigils in Times Square and at the White House, was meant to protest Trump’s controversial statements in particular and corruption among politicians in general.

“We saw (the vigil) referred to on the Rachel Maddow Show,” said Romeo Cruz from San Antonio. “We wanted to be part of something to let us know we’re not alone.”

Among the participants were members of the Resistance Choir of South Central Texas, a group that participates in protests and rallies with song.

“We sing contemporary and traditional protest songs,” choir member Cat Yuraska said, adding that the San Marcos branch of the choir has just started.

“It feels like singing is a good way to be present at different protests and rallies,” choir member Jenni Huntly said. “People react to it in a different way.”

The group marched around the downtown square with signs and candles, singing and chanting, and then stopped on the south side of the courthouse to discuss election issues like voter registration and voting machines. They also discussed what actions to take next.

Before the start of the protest, Mary Harrington has Michael Harrington quickly write “I Really Do Care” on the back of her shirt.

“If we are committed enough to show up, to march around the square … probably what we ought to do is translate that energy into telling our friends, ‘You need to get your buns out and vote,’” said James Bouzard, a Lutheran pastor.

Bouzard said that he is “deeply and profoundly disturbed by the Christian voice that dominates the news” and its lack of compassion.

“I can do better,” he said. “We can do better.”

Other Confront Corruption rallies are scheduled around the country, including Puerto Rico, for the next few days.