ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Across the country, tens of thousands of people turn out for a day of action, protesting the current administration and honoring late Congressman John Lewis.

Organizers say the ‘Good Trouble Lives On’ protest is a nationwide day of peaceful, nonviolent action rooted in the legacy of the Civil Rights movement.

Lewis was known for leading movements during the Civil Rights movement and using the phrase ‘good trouble’ when speaking on non-violent protests.

Wednesday evening, hundreds gathered downtown Rockford for the event. The protest began at the City Market Pavilion and participants marched across the State Street Bridge. The march was then followed by speakers and calls to action. A speaker at Thursday’s event says he actually marched with John Lewis and Martin Luther King during the Civil Rights movement.

When the walk began, chants could be heard as the hundreds marched across the bridge.

‘Good Trouble Lives On’ protest draws in hundreds downtown Rockford

“Basically standing up, using your voice, standing up for those causes that you believe in and taking action,” said Jennifer Blaisdell, president of the League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford.

And Rockford residents are taking action and not staying silent.

“The activity going on in federal government, it’s off course. We’re way off course, we need to get back to the bipartisanship,” explained Chuck Nakata, a protest participant.

“I have been very blessed in my progress here in this country and I want that for everybody else. I’m not going to be sitting on the sidelines just waiting – No, I want to be a part of the solution,” said Cristina Gloria another protester.

‘Good Trouble Lives On’ protest draws in hundreds downtown Rockford

Organizers of the nationwide protest say civil rights are being reversed. Participants say they are outraged by attacks on certain causes like voting rights and free speech.

“I’m also fighting for women’s rights, human rights, and John Lewis was a wonderful, wonderful human being,” said Christine Haeggquist, the co-president of the American Association of University Women.

On the other side of the aisle, State Representative John Cabello says he has no idea what the protestors are talking about. He states freedom is not being taken from anyone, except criminals.

“Can’t do the time, don’t do the crime,” said Cabello.

He says many of the demonstrators nationwide are being paid. He also reminds anyone protesting to keep it peaceful.

“Enjoy the freedom that the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice gave you,” said Cabello.

The Rockford protest was one of many across the country and the stateline. Another ‘Good Trouble Lives On’ protest took place in Freeport.