Sam O’Hara, a 35-year-old artist from Washington, D.C., expressed that his experience of being handcuffed during a protest highlights the ongoing relevance of Star Wars’ themes of resistance against tyranny. His remarks came after a settlement reached with the District of Columbia, following an incident in September 2025 where he was detained while playing the “Imperial March” as National Guard members patrolled Dupont Circle.
The city awarded O’Hara $50,000, although he noted that the monetary settlement had not brought him any “closure.” O’Hara stated, “I’m still very upset that the National Guard is here. I won’t feel closure until they’re gone.” The settlement resolved his claims against the Metropolitan Police Department but his lawsuit against Ohio National Guard member Sergeant Devon Beck remains pending.
“If you’re going to keep following us, we can contact Metro PD and they can come handle you,” said Beck, according to the lawsuit.
O’Hara was detained for 20 to 30 minutes without charges. He hopes the involved National Guard member understands the duty to uphold the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. O’Hara expressed dissatisfaction that taxpayers, including himself, bear the cost of the settlement instead of those he views as having violated his rights.
“Ideally, whoever infringed upon my constitutional right to protest should pay these fines,” he insisted.
O’Hara maintained his commitment to exercising his First Amendment rights. He credited his family upbringing and organizations like the ACLU with empowering him to stand up for his beliefs. “Knowledge is power,” he stated confidently during the encounter.
This act of protest, characterized by the infamous Darth Vader theme, served as a peaceful expression against the presence of armed forces in a civilian space. O’Hara emphasized the transformative power of music and art during protests. “Good protest, just like good art, should be provocative,” he remarked.
O’Hara recalled the spontaneous nature of the protest, inspired by seeing National Guard members alongside everyday park-goers. His view of the troops as “pawns” echoed the imagery of Star Wars, linking them to the synonymous Storm Troopers.
His legal struggles continue against Beck, seeking accountability. Although he does not expect an apology, O’Hara desires acknowledgment of First Amendment rights. The ACLU, which supports his fight, emphasizes that government cannot censor protest based on personal judgment.
“The system works,” O’Hara said, grateful for nonprofit support.
Despite the ordeal, his passion for Star Wars remains strong, finding humor and camaraderie with neighbors wishing him well with “May the Force be with you.”