News Local News

Photos From Boston's 'Free Speech Rally' And Counter Protests

The "free speech rally" crowd at the Parkman Bandstand was much smaller compared to the number of counter protesters.

By WGBH News Staff

August 19, 2017

Updated August 21, 2017

Security along the Boston Common ahead of a so-called "free speech rally" demonstration and expected counter protests.

Large trucks and fences along the Boston Common ahead of a so-called "free speech rally" demonstration and expected counter protests.

A MAGA and Trump Supporter arrives early to today's expected demonstration and counter demonstrations on the Boston Common.

"Antifa" members gather on the Boston Common ahead of the so-called "free speech rally" demonstration and various counter protests expected.

Former Boston Celtic legend and Boston resident Cedric Maxwell at today's so-called "free speech rally" demonstration and counter demonstration on the Boston Common.

Stephanie Trudel, Betsy Moran and Lauren Soucy of Leominster, Mass. at today's demonstrations and counter protest on the Boston Common.

Police stand on the Boston Common, keeping the "free speech rally" participants away from the counter protesters.

Thousands join in the counter protest march from the Reggie Lewis Center in Roxbury to the Boston Common.

Counter protesters hold signs near the "free speech rally" on Boston Common.

Counter protesters hold signs near the "free speech rally" on Boston Common.

"Antifa" members gather on the Boston Common ahead of the so-called "free speech rally" demonstration and various counter protests expected.

The "free speech rally" crowd at the Parkman Bandstand was much smaller compared to the number of counter protesters.

"Free speech rally" attendees begin leaving Parkman Bandstand and making their way off Boston Common.

The police came prepared to keep the "free speech rally" and the counter protestors separate

Counter protesters celebrate their victory with music and cheers.

Become a GBH sponsor

GBH Newsletters

GBH offers several newsletters focused on the topics that matter to you.

Sign up now!

More Local News

Why have businesses in Mattapan left liquor licenses on the table?

Under the Radar
Cambridge court finds evidence to charge about a dozen men with patronizing high-end brothel

All Things Considered
Brookline School Committee troubles advocates by eliminating office focused on equity
Green card holder from New Hampshire 'interrogated' at Logan Airport, detained

What matters to you.

© 2025 WGBH. All rights reserved.

Our Partners