Approximately 100 protesters gathered in Culver City on Saturday to urge major media corporations to publicly defend democratic processes ahead of the November elections. The demonstration focused on local offices of Sony Pictures Studios, Apple, Pinterest, and Amazon MGM Studios, with participants calling on these companies to endorse the “Business for Democracy Pledge.”
The event began with speeches outside Culver City’s City Hall before the group marched to Sony Pictures Studios. From there, the demonstrators proceeded past promotional material for Sony’s upcoming film “The Social Reckoning” and concluded their march outside the historic Culver Studios, now under Amazon MGM’s ownership. The protest was organized by Culver City and Friends Rising along with Keep Showing Up, who previously sent letters to the chief executives of the targeted corporations requesting their support for the pledge. No responses have been reported, and representatives of the companies did not reply to requests for comment.
Phil Ansell, leader of Culver City and Friends Rising, emphasized the influence large corporations wield in defending democratic governance. “This administration cares what business says,” Ansell stated before the march, underscoring how business engagement has helped preserve democracy in other countries where it faced threats.
Culver City Vice Mayor Bryan “Bubba” Fish also addressed the crowd, highlighting the city’s unique position as a hub for global media companies and the mutual benefits these organizations derive from stable governance. “The only reason they’ve been able to grow to the size that they are is because we have stable, legitimate governance,” Fish said. He urged the companies to publicly commit to protecting fair and free elections, calling it the “bare minimum” expected of them as community members.
Reverend Dr. Frances Wattman Rosenau, pastor at Culver City Presbyterian Church, spoke at multiple locations during the march. She framed the pledge as an act of partnership in affirming democracy and combating marginalization. “It’s time for everybody to be in the boat and rowing,” Rosenau said.
The rally was part of a broader national effort coordinated with the group May Day Strong, featuring participation from other local advocacy groups including PowerSwitch Action, National Nurses United, and Singing Resistance Santa Monica. Amy Schur, campaign director with Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment, cited widespread grassroots mobilization as evidence of public concern over democratic integrity ahead of the election. “People are seeing what’s at stake. So they’re ready to march, they’re ready to speak out,” Schur said, stressing the importance of strategic action beyond protests to influence corporate behavior.
Ansell referenced corporate responses following the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, expressing hope that companies will take a proactive stance against efforts to undermine upcoming elections. “Don’t wait for the equivalent of January 6 to happen again,” he urged attendees, suggesting that broad corporate commitments could deter actions aimed at subverting the vote.
Organizers framed Saturday’s demonstration as one step in an ongoing campaign, encouraging continued engagement from the public. “No one should feel like they have to stay home alone and despair,” Ansell said. “There are many opportunities for action, and we have to be prepared. Today’s action is one of many to defend this election.”