Throughout its history, Washington Square Park has been a place where people go to protest on a national stage. From the labor movements of the 1800s and 1900s, to the beatnik riots and LGBT rallies of the 1960s and current calls for racial justice, Washington Square Park provides a platform for the disenfranchised to make their voices heard.

These photos provide a glimpse into the history of protesting, and the current protests still going on today. Unless otherwise noted, images were provided by WSPC Photography Volunteers.

Bette Midler performing at the 3rd Annual Pride March, which ended with a rally in WSP, 1973. Photo courtesy of the New York Times.

Izzy Young gives a speech in Washington Square Park during the Beatnik Riots, April, 1961. Courtesy of Village Preservation (GVSHP).

Police officers arrest demonstrators in Washington Square Park during the Beatnik Riots, April 1961. Courtesy of Village Preservation (GVSHP), Fred W. McDarrah collection, used with permission..

Occupy Wall Street holds a General Assembly meeting in WSP. Courtesy of David Shankbone.

NYPD Chief of Department Terence Monahan kneels with a crowd of protesters at WSP, June 1, 2020. Courtesy of Peter Gerber, New York Post.

Thousands of protesters flock to WSP to protest racial injustice, June 6, 2020. Courtesy of Kim Hastreiter, via Instagram.

Protesters spill onto 5th Avenue, June 6, 2020.

Peaceful protests continue in the Park, June 8, 2020.

Black Lives Matter protesters in the Park, June 16 2020. Courtesy of @nyc_protests via twitter.