EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – What began as a solo act of protest on a sidewalk in Edwardsville is now drawing hundreds and the attention of Illinois’ top leaders.

Andi Smith never intended to start a movement. But after watching government programs get cut and agencies close, she said she could not stay silent any longer. 

In an act of protest, she made a sign, stood alone on a stretch of South Buchanan Street and let her voice be heard.

“Day by day I was more and more upset,” Smith said. “I was watching government agencies being shuttered and programs being cut.”

Before long, others began to join her. First a stranger. Then a few more. 

By the end of March, nearly 300 people were lining the street each Friday, holding signs and chanting in solidarity, rain or shine.

Among the growing crowd was Dr. Catherine Santanello, a local resident who found strength and hope in the movement.

“I was just sitting at home watching the news, getting very upset,” Santanello said. “It felt so empowering to come out here and be with like-minded people.”

The group’s concerns vary from threats to public lands and cuts to social services to reductions in federal jobs, but they are united in a call for action and accountability.

Their message has reached the state’s highest office. In a recent speech, Governor J.B. Pritzker highlighted Smith by name, encouraging others to follow her example.

“Today I want to talk to you about those people,” Pritzker said. “I want their voices to be what we hear, their stories to be the ones that we tell. Andi Smith.”

For now, the protesters say they plan to keep returning to that same stretch of street every Friday, standing side by side, pushing for change and hoping to inspire others across Illinois to do the same.