Seventy-one residents showed up on the public sidewalk in front of the retirement community along with about 120 friends and family members. There was a large demonstration in downtown Grand Rapids but most of the retirement community residents chose not to go downtown because of concerns about safety, mobility and energy demands. The intent was to support anyone at the retirement community who wanted to have their voices heard by standing up (or sitting down on their wheelchairs, walkers or chairs brought by residents from their apartment dining rooms).

The demonstration was amplified by both local and national news. One resident held a sign saying. “The time has come. I am 93 and this is my first public demonstration. Hands off Now!!!”

Residents reported extreme gratitude that other residents made it as easy and as safe as possible for them to participate. Some residents from two other retirement communities heard about the demonstration and came to this one. They said next time, they will organize one at their own retirement community. 

We had a few Third Act signs available for people to hold up.  The one most loved by the residents was “Old And Bold.”  Click on any one of the photos below to see it closer up.