While the walkout is largely planned for Jan. 20, some events began as early as Saturday, Jan. 17.

WASHINGTON — Nationwide protests are planned for Tuesday, Jan. 20, the one-year mark since President Donald Trump returned to the White House for his second term. 

The planned walkout, called the “Free America Walkout,” is being led by the social justice group Women’s March. The group was behind the Women’s March on Washington during Trump’s first term.

The protests arrive during a tumultuous time for the Trump administration as it deals with the aftermath of the deadly shooting by a federal immigration agent of a woman in her car in Minneapolis. The killing has intensified protests and scrutiny of the federal response.

Here’s what to know about the walkout.


Free America Walkout 2026: What is it? Who is organizing it?

Women’s March is calling for a nationwide walkout on Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 2 p.m. local time, urging people across the country to walk out of work, school and stores. 

“Those in power have escalated attacks on our rights, our bodies, and our livelihoods,,” the group said on its website. “We’re escalating in response. Walking out lets us stress-test our readiness for real, collective action — not just symbolic protest.”

The group also explained in their Frequently Asked Questions website section why they chose a walkout over a march.

“Marches show how many people care. Walkouts show how much power we have,” the group said. “A walkout interrupts business as usual. It makes visible how much our labor, participation, and cooperation are taken for granted — and what happens when we withdraw them together.”

Walkouts are planned in Washington, D.C., Houston, Oklahoma City and more. They also come the day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

While the walkout is largely planned for Jan. 20, some events listed on the group’s website began as early as Saturday, Jan. 17.

Women’s March suggested that those who cannot join the walkout due to the risk of disciplinary action at work can participate in other ways. The group said that workers can take their breaks around 2 p.m. Tuesday or take some approved leave. They also suggested participating before or after work.