Occupy Democrats, a social media platform known for its far-left stance, has announced their recognition of January 20th, the day when Donald Trump is scheduled to take the presidential oath, as a “National Day of Mourning.”

The group urged its supporters to wear black as a sign of protest against and mourning of the inauguration of Donad Trump as the 47th president, as Breitbart reports.

Occupy Democrats has a significant following, with the group’s message reaching over 10 million people. This declaration was shared on both Facebook and Instagram, amplifying the call to action among their users.

The page, founded by Omar and Rafael Rivero in 2012, has a history of mobilizing social media-based protests, particularly in response to political events they deem impactful.

Reaction Among Followers on Social Media

The announcement by Occupy Democrats did not go unnoticed, catalyzing a wave of reactions from their followers. One post on Facebook clearly highlighted their intent, urging followers to "wear all black on January 20th."

This evoked responses from the community, some of which reminisced about similar actions during past political transitions.

One user echoed support for the initiative, mentioning, “Great idea. I did in 2016,” a sentiment that underscores the continuity of this symbolic protest against administrations deemed unfavorable. The conversation on the page was rich with interactions, reflecting deep feelings about the political landscape.

Occupy Democrats’ message stirred sentiment with some followers who expressed concerns about the current state of political affairs compared to previous years. Comments like, “I’ve never felt more unsafe, this is worse than 2016,” captured the fear and apprehension among some followers about the incoming Trump administration.

Calls for Symbolic Gestures of Protest

In addition to wearing black, followers also shared further suggestions for symbolic acts of dissent. One user proposed keeping flags at half-mast, an action traditionally reserved for honoring figures of significance or marking national sorrow. This suggestion aligns with the group's framing of the day as one of mourning.

Another Instagram user commented, “We’ll be wearing black for the next 4 years,” illustrating the perception of Trump's presidency as an extended period of concern and dissatisfaction. Such comments suggest many are contemplating long-term engagement in protest activities stemming from this political change.

Occupy Democrats’ engagement with its vast audience following the election results underscores its dedication to conveying discontent through unified acts of symbolism. The election on Nov. 5, which resulted in Donald Trump winning the presidency, was met with significant backlash from the group and its followers, highlighting their resolve to oppose what they perceive as a polarizing political figure.

Founders’ Strategies in Social Media Protests

Omar and Rafael Rivero, the founders, have consistently utilized social media as a powerful tool to orchestrate and express collective political sentiment. The call for wearing black on Inauguration Day fits within a larger narrative of community resistance they’ve fostered over the years.

The reaction following the November election win for Trump saw Occupy Democrats amplifying its role in political discourse, particularly through digital platforms that allow for rapid information dissemination and engagement. Their command over such a sizable online following enables swift mobilization, creating a virtual space for expression and solidarity.

While the notion of a "National Day of Mourning" starkly opposes the celebratory tone traditionally associated with inaugurations, it reflects a segment of the population’s reaction to the political shift. This day, as framed by Occupy Democrats, resonates with their narrative of apprehension and continued opposition.

The Impact of Digital Communities

By calling for nationwide participation in wearing black, the group not only fosters a visual symbolism of dissent but also leverages the digital realm to amplify voices that might feel marginalized in the broader political discourse.

Occupy Democrats’ movement and the interaction it spurs on its platform serve as a testament to the power of social media in modern political activism. In an era where political movements often begin online, the group’s ability to unite followers in common symbolic acts is a noteworthy example of how digital communities can impact real-world events.

As Jan. 20 approached, the momentum surrounding this call to action continued to grow, and the anticipation among some of its effect on the national scene was evident. Whether through vocal dissent or silent protest, the group's initiative is likely to make its mark on how this moment in political history is perceived by a portion of the American populace.

Ultimately, Occupy Democrats’ ability to capture the sentiments of its followers and translate them into collective action highlights the evolving nature of political protest in the digital age. This event marks yet another chapter in its ongoing engagement with social and political activism through powerful visual and symbolic gestures.