Thousands protest in Washington, New York City in defiance of Trump

Raucous protesters squared off against Washington police Thursday night outside a meeting of Trump supporters, the first of what may be several demonstrations before and after the new president's inauguration.

And in New York City, thousands filled Trump’s backyard, led by several stars such as Robert De Niro, Cher and others.

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Joined by celebrities, government leaders and union organizers, angry protesters flooded Columbus Circle, Broadway and several blocks of Central Park West, the New York Daily News reported.

“There are those who are working to divide us,” said Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon. “We are not going back. We’re not turning around."

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In Washington, protesters gathered on 14th Street outside the National Press Club to demonstrate against "DeploraBall," an event organized by some of Trump's most fervent supporters, CNN reported. Images from the event were shared on social media.

Some protesters appeared to set off smoke devices and police detained several people, although it was unclear if they were placed under arrest.

Protesters lit a small fire and danced around it, shouting insults about Trump. The group Refuse Fascism organized the protest outside of the DeploraBall, the Los Angeles Times reported, an event that gathered many of the white nationalist “alt-right” movement to celebrate the inauguration.