Submarine Sandwich Sparks Unexpected Protest in Washington, D.C.

A single sandwich ignited a wave of political protest in Washington, D.C., when a man named Sean Charles Dunn confronted federal law enforcement over concerns regarding President Trump‘s deployment of the National Guard. On September 1, 2023, Dunn, 37, took to the streets with nothing but an Italian sub and a message of defiance, becoming an unexpected symbol of resistance in the capital.

The incident unfolded on 14th Street, where Dunn allegedly approached a group of federal officers, pointing at a Customs and Border Patrol agent and shouting, “F*** you, you f***ing fascists! Why are you here? I don’t want you in my city!” He then hurled his sandwich at the officers, striking one in the chest. After the incident, Dunn fled the scene but was arrested shortly thereafter.

The sandwich incident quickly transformed into a grassroots movement. Residents throughout northwest D.C. began creating street art inspired by the event, reminiscent of Banksy’s “Flower Thrower” mural. Instead of flowers, these new pieces depict a masked figure throwing a submarine sandwich, sparking conversations about protest and civic engagement. The artwork appeared near public transport locations, but many were swiftly removed by city authorities. The remnants of these artworks serve as reminders of the rising political sentiment in the area.

Weekend protests embraced the sandwich theme, with demonstrators waving loaves of bread and holding signs that read “One small sub for man … One giant gesture for democracy” and “Don’t f*** with D.C. unless you want this footlong.” This unconventional form of protest resonated with many, demonstrating the community’s eagerness to express dissent creatively.

Merchandise soon followed the movement. Lorraine Hu, an Etsy printmaker, reported selling nearly 500 T-shirts, tote bags, and pins featuring the sandwich motif. Hu noted that she plans to donate all proceeds—over $4,000 so far—to local aid organizations, including Miriam’s Kitchen and Ayuda. “It’s nice to take the anxiety of our times and turn it into something productive,” she stated, emphasizing the sense of community that has emerged from this unusual protest.

While Dunn was initially released without charges, he later learned that a warrant had been issued for his arrest. Pam Bondi, the Attorney General, announced his termination from the Justice Department, stating, “If you touch any law enforcement officer, we will come after you. Not only is he FIRED, he has been charged with a felony.” Dunn is scheduled to appear in court in September, where he is expected to argue that his sandwich was more of a humorous statement than a weapon.

The incident has not only sparked debate but also inspired internet humor. A user named “Scary Larry” humorously dubbed Dunn the “Subway Assassin,” writing, “He may be a hero to you, but no matter how you slice it, the Subway Assassin, AKA The Hurl of Sandwich, is a natural-bread killer.”

This unexpected episode has brought a light-hearted yet serious tone to discussions on political expression in Washington, D.C. As the story continues to evolve, the sandwich stands as a symbol of community engagement and resistance against perceived governmental overreach.