HERMITAGE, Pa. - Mercer County residents took to the streets in Hermitage on Saturday, emphasizing peace as they expressed their concerns about the federal government's recent actions.

Some held signs decrying ICE, others urged President Donald Trump to halt any further action in Venezuela after the country's president, Nicolás Maduro was extracted by U.S. forces in a raid January 3. Still others at the rally held statements of peace, waving American flags in the cold.

Mercer County was not alone. Saturday represented a "Global Day of Action" for organizations worldwide. 

Rally organizer, Rhonda Paglia, with the Mercer County Democrats, said she is proud of the turnout and the commitment of those who attended, despite 30-degree temperatures.

"WE ARE OUT HERE BEING PEACEFUL AND DESPITE THE DAY I AM SO PROUD OF ALL OF THESE PEOPLE WHO HAVE COME HERE," pAGLIA SAID. "THEY'RE JUST A GREAT GROUP OF PEOPLE THAT HAVE BIG HEARTS AND WANT TO HAVE A SAY IN WHAT'S HAPPENING IN OUR COUNTRY."

In response to the growing argument that protestors are the problem, or even at the center of violent demonstrations, protestors in Hermitage said what they do is vital.

"Protestors are America. That's how we defend our freedoms. Not just now. It's been through our entire history," Protestor and West Middlesex resident, Michael Pivarnik said. "Without protesting the people have no voice. Our country is run by the people and for the people and of the people. Our voice matters. We should be making decisions of how we want to live, not a rich billionaire."

In Hermitage, rally organizers emphasized peace above all. Some strolled the crowd in blue vests, making sure everyone stayed safe.

"The blue vests are part of our safety team for our rallies. We want people to be able to identify us with our blue vests and name tags and if there's any issues or they see anything, they need to let us know immediately so we can contact our local police department," Paglia told 21 News.