Rev. Al Sharpton Heads Protest in Financial District to Support DEI Initiatives, Marking 1963 March on Washington Anniversary

Rev. Al Sharpton led a large and spirited march on Wall Street on August 28, 2025, calling for economic justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in corporate America. The march drew hundreds of demonstrators to Lower Manhattan in a powerful response to recent rollbacks of DEI initiatives by the Trump administration. The event was held on the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic 1963 March on Washington, underscoring the ongoing fight for civil rights and equality.

A Historic March for Economic Justice

The march commemorated the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and drew parallels between the 1963 civil rights movement and today’s struggles. Participants reflected on King’s vision and the work still needed regarding income inequality, racial justice, and access to opportunities. As Sharpton stated, the movement continues 62 years later, marching once again to demand fairness in economic policies and corporate practices.

Sharpton’s Leadership and Call to Action

At the forefront, Al Sharpton energized demonstrators with a forceful message aimed directly at Wall Street bankers, CEOs, and political influencers. He emphasized the power of the community’s spending and voices in demanding accountability from financial leaders. Sharpton criticized corporate dollars funding political opposition to voting rights and DEI, stressing that the fight would persist on the streets until real justice is achieved. His words rallied supporters from across the nation, highlighting the strength of a united front.

Broad Coalition and Community Support

The march brought together diverse organizations, activists, and leaders, including members of Dr. King’s family. Participants came from various states, representing a wide coalition dedicated to confronting economic disparities. The event also featured speeches from prominent advocates like Janet Muria, president of Unidos US, and union leaders who called for systemic reform and equitable investment in Black, Latino, and Asian-American communities. The demonstrators underscored that these groups collectively comprise a significant portion of the U.S. population and economy, demanding fair treatment and opportunity.

Demanding Change from Wall Street

Marchers demanded Wall Street stop perpetuating inequality by opposing DEI initiatives and financial reforms. They called for corporate America to invest fairly in all communities, recognizing both the moral and economic imperatives of inclusion. The protest underscored the link between corporate policies and broader social issues such as voting rights, immigration, education, and healthcare access. The march sent a clear message that economic justice and civil rights are inseparable.

Looking Forward: The Fight Continues

The March on Wall Street was not only a demonstration but a movement demanding sustained attention and action. Organizers and participants vowed to keep the pressure on financial institutions and policymakers until measurable progress is made. Sharpton’s rallying cry was clear: economic justice is civil rights, and the struggle will continue both in boardrooms and on the streets. The march serves as a reminder that the fight for equality spans generations and remains as urgent today as it was in 1963.

The event emphasized the power of collective action and the necessity of holding institutions accountable to create a more just and inclusive economy for all Americans.