The Horn Heard Round the World

Attending a Honk & Wave is cathartic for both wavers and honkers. Wavers stand on a street corner with signs—often witty and sometimes pointed—and wave as cars pass. The motorists provide the honks; it's a call and response.

For wavers, it's a chance to do something in the face of troubling times. Instead of sitting home frustrated by the news, they gather with friends and neighbors, make signs, share laughs and spend a sane hour in an often insane world.

As drivers approach, they may first think, “Uh-oh, a traffic jam.” Then they see the signs and smiling faces and realize it's something else entirely. They honk in support, letting the wavers know that their signs matter as they drive away feeling a little less alone and a little more hopeful.

That was the spirit of approximately 50 wavers at the Honk & Wave at Broadway and 21st Ave. over the Fourth of July weekend. An elderly woman crossed the street to share a thought: “Every year I dress up in red, white and blue. But this year I couldn't do it. It just didn't feel right.”

Many Americans are feeling the strain of this moment. That's why these gatherings matter. They show everyone who passes by that there is another way, one rooted in optimism, community and the courage to be seen. And there is something deeply American about such a protest. Every Honk & Wave is an exercise of our First Amendment rights: free speech, peaceful assembly and the freedom to advocate for change. These freedoms make it possible for ordinary people to gather, speak out and make their voices heard.

The horns, signs, laughter and waves are more than a weekly ritual. They are a reminder that democracy requires participation and that protecting our vote is essential to protecting the rights that make gatherings like this possible.

Every horn says, “You're not alone!” Every wave carries hope. And every person who shows up is helping defend the future we want to see because this is Our Future, Our Fight.