February 17, 2026 NEW YORK, NY They didn’t bring hallmark cards or flags this Presidents’ Day. Instead, hundreds of New Yorkers showed up at the door of the Commander-in-Chief’s gilded skyscraper with a much more explicit message.

In a display that was equal parts street party and political middle finger—literally—the sidewalk outside Trump Tower became the epicenter of a "profane yet peaceful" uprising.

A Party With a Point

Organized by the activist group Rise and Resist, the crowd gathered just after 1:00 PM on Monday. While the President was away from his Manhattan residence, his presence was felt in the sheer volume of the vitriol directed at the building’s brass-plated entrance.

The atmosphere wasn't just angry; it was electric. With drums thumping and music blaring, the crowd turned a protest into a choreographed act of rebellion. After a tense countdown from ten, the group collectively raised their middle fingers to the sky, shouting a synchronized "F**k Trump!" that echoed off the surrounding luxury boutiques.

Why the Anger? The "Gestapo" Comparison

For those in the crowd, the gesture wasn't just about being crass; it was a response to what they describe as a "hateful" shift in American governance. Two major issues dominated the conversation:

• ICE Operations: Protesters voiced outrage over aggressive immigration enforcement, with some, like Michael Lent, comparing the federal force to the "Gestapo."

• Civil Liberties: Many cited concerns over the removal of the Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument, viewing it as a direct attack on the LGBTQ+ community.

“It is my duty as a citizen,” protestor Elaine Wong explained. “It’s my duty to protect my neighbors, my friends, and all my family. There’s no reason for ICE to be in the streets... taking citizens and putting them into camps.”

"Unsafe and Unfit"

Despite the heavy police presence and the controversial nature of the "one-finger salute," the event ended without a single arrest or incident of violence. The protesters made it clear: they weren't just there to make noise; they were there to make it known that a significant portion of the President's hometown feels "unsafe" under his current leadership.

As Keira Milme put it, "If you have feelings about something, you need to come out and show everybody how serious you are."

On this Presidents’ Day, New York showed exactly how serious it is—and it only took one finger to do it.