Women’s March start of something big, Menchaca says

Council member points to birth of anti-Trump movement

January 25, 2017 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Leaders of the newly formed group Love Trumps Hate Sunset Park are planning numerous activities to fight President Donald Trump’s agenda, according to Councilmember Carlos Menchaca. Photo courtesy of Menchaca’s office

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Among the estimated 500,000 participants in the Women’s March on Washington were members of a new group called Love Trumps Hate Sunset Park. Composed mostly of residents of Sunset Park, the organization traveled to the nation’s capital to join the throngs of other protesters at the demonstration against President Donald Trump on Jan. 21.

The Women’s March was just the beginning, according to Councilmember Carlos Menchaca (D-Sunset Park-Red Hook), who said the election of the combative Trump has spawned a rebirth of Democratic political activism at both the national and local levels.

“This past week marked the first of many weeks of resistance,” said Menchaca, who added that he is part of the anti-Trump movement. “I’m in it for the long haul,” he said.

In a letter to the public, Menchaca described the work of Love Trumps Hate Sunset Park and how grassroots groups like it can reshape the American political landscape.

“The Women’s March reached every corner of the world, activating millions who want to make a difference. I know our work together this year will reshape our nation for the better. It won’t be easy and it will require choosing love, not hate,” he wrote.

On Jan. 20, the day Trump was inaugurated, Love Trumps Hate Sunset Park organized a “One Community” day of service. Leaders paired up volunteers with service organizations that could use their help. In the evening, volunteers gathered at Saint Michael Roman Catholic Church at 352 42nd St. for a celebration that featured food and cultural dances. Members of Love Trumps Hate Sunset Park drove to Washington, D.C. on Saturday for the Women’s March.

But even before Trump moved into the White House, left-leaning Sunset Park residents were making their feelings about him known.

On Nov. 20, Love Trumps Hate Sunset Park led a protest march in the neighborhood. Hundreds of people marched along Fifth Avenue from Sunset Park on 44th Street to the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on 60th Street.

“Since the national election, Brooklyn residents have been opening their homes to host small groups of neighbors who learn about civil rights, immigration resources and how to support each other in difficult times. I’ve had the honor of attending four gatherings,” Menchaca said.

He urged anyone who wants to get involved to contact his district office by calling 718-439-9012. The office is located at 4417 Fourth Ave.

“Let us sustain our daily resistance with positive actions, big or small, each day. We have a long way to go. Not every week will feel as vivid. Our charge is to stay informed, get connected, tell the truth and take action in some way every day,” Menchaca said.