The Take The White House Peace Vigil is dismantled – why?
Sep 19, 2025
Marissa Lang, a local enterprise reporter for The Washington Post, shares the compelling story of the White House Peace Vigil, a continuous anti-war protest that lasted 44 years. She delves into its history and the unique role it played as a symbol of dissent. Recently, the vigil was abruptly dismantled following an order from then-President Trump, leading to heated discussions about free speech and the implications of such actions. Lang also highlights the challenges faced by volunteers as they confront the harsh winter without shelter.
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Longest Continuous Protest
- The White House Peace Vigil is likely the longest continuous political protest in the U.S., started in 1981 and focused on nuclear disarmament.
- Its core message remains anti-war and anti-nuclear even as signage and issues evolved over 44 years.
From One Sign To A 24/7 Setup
- The vigil grew from one man with a sign into a busy setup with tarps, A-frame signs, flags, and posters protecting volunteers from weather.
- Volunteers sat 24/7 through blizzards and hurricanes and used structures to shield materials and people.
Vigil As Part Of D.C.'s Fabric
- Locals often treat the vigil as part of D.C.'s political landscape while most visitors are tourists who notice it when seeing the White House.
- Residents recognize it as familiar even if they don't engage directly with activists.