Sam O’Hara, a resident of Washington, D.C., reflected on how playing the ‘Imperial March’ from Star Wars at National Guard members in 2025 underscored the enduring themes of resisting tyranny and fascism. His actions led to a settlement with the District of Columbia after he was detained by police for 20 to 30 minutes.
The city awarded O’Hara, an artist, a $50,000 settlement. However, he expressed that this financial compensation did not provide him with a sense of closure. ‘I’m still very upset that the National Guard is here,’ he commented, adding that he wouldn’t feel closure until their departure.
This settlement resolved his claims against the Metropolitan Police Department. Nonetheless, his lawsuit against an Ohio National Guard member, Sergeant Devon Beck, remains ongoing. O’Hara’s lawsuit states that Beck issued a warning about contacting Metro PD if O’Hara continued his protest, leading to police intervention.
When asked what he would say to those involved, O’Hara highlighted the responsibility of the National Guard to not only serve the United States but its citizens as well. ‘Part of that duty is making sure that we uphold the Constitution and the Bill of Rights,’ he noted.
O’Hara also expressed discomfort with taxpayers bearing the cost of his settlement. ‘In an ideal world, whoever infringed upon my constitutional right to protest would be the person that has to pay these kinds of fines,’ he stated.
Despite his arrest, O’Hara remains committed to exercising his First Amendment rights. He credits his understanding of constitutional protections and organizations like the ACLU for strengthening his resolve during the incident.
Regarding his peaceful protest, O’Hara explained that he intended to use the music as a form of political expression. ‘Using art and using music—I think that spoke for itself,’ he said.
O’Hara’s protest was spontaneous, sparked during a walk with his dog in Dupont Circle where he observed armed National Guard members. He described the scene as dystopian, similar to the Storm Troopers from Star Wars, and commented on the timelessness of the franchise’s themes.
His protest gained significant attention online, leading to viral videos and supportive messages from neighbors. Despite the settlement, his legal battle continues as he seeks accountability from the remaining defendant in his case.
O’Hara appreciates the involvement of the ACLU, noting, ‘It’s just great to see nonprofits at work… the system works.’ ACLU-D.C.’s senior staff attorney, Michael Perloff, reinforced the importance of the First Amendment in preventing government officials from punishing protestors.
Through it all, O’Hara maintains his fandom for Star Wars. ‘I’m a nerd always,’ he concluded with a laugh.
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