TRUCKEE, Calif. — Truckee High School senior Elijah Kreiss is leading a protest against tyranny, “One March 2025,” set for Saturday, March 1, at 1011 Church Street in Truckee.

Kreiss, an active community organizer, previously spearheaded a protest as part of the national 50/51 movement, which is in opposition to decisions and orders by President Trump and Elon Musk. Seeing ongoing protests nationwide but a lack of similar action locally, he decided to organize a gathering to channel the energy and passion he observed in Truckee.

“Making this happen was just a matter of setting a time and place,” Kreiss said. “I was looking for a protest to attend, checking Nextdoor and Facebook groups, and saw so many people expressing anger and frustration but not organizing action. I realized no one had taken that step, so I did.”

The response has been overwhelming. Kreiss expected 30 to 40 attendees at his first protest but saw more than 300 people turn out. This time, he anticipates between 1,000 and 3,000 participants.

The Truckee High senior credits the community for stepping up in support. “People have offered donations, rallied their friends and family, and helped spread the message. The support has been amazing,” he said.

Kreiss, who was recently accepted to Colorado College, has gained experience navigating local government processes for protest permitting and publicity. His activism highlights a broader movement of grassroots demonstrations across the country—events that, he noted, have largely gone underreported in major media outlets.

“These protests are happening every day, in every major city, in all 50 states, but they aren’t being covered,” Kreiss said. “There’s a massive grassroots movement growing, and I think in the next few months, we’re going to see it become more organized.”

His goal for this protest, as with his previous efforts, is to educate and mobilize. He has prepared leaflets, pamphlets, and QR codes linking to resources and articles. “People might see protests as just waving signs and honking horns, but they can be a place to learn, connect, and take real action,” he said.

Kreiss emphasized the importance of organization in the face of political uncertainty. “The slogan for this protest is ‘Do not panic, organize,'” he said. “In the last few weeks, people have felt scattered and panicked. What we need to do is take a breath, get to work, and organize as effectively as those pushing opposing agendas.”

One key figure behind the protest’s success is Pam Hobday, a longtime community leader who has helped Kreiss refine his message and rally support. “She’s been an incredible inspiration,” Kreiss said. “Her connections and guidance have been invaluable in making this happen.”

Looking ahead, Kreiss sees growing potential in grassroots activism and hopes to keep the momentum going. “The support has been incredible, and I’m grateful to everyone who has stepped up,” he said. “It really does take a village.”