On Oct. 18, thousands gathered in Bend to join the nationwide No Kings protest opposing the Trump administration. An estimated seven million people attended across the country, over two million more than the last protest in June.
What does No Kings mean? Amelia Dubose, one of the volunteers who helped organize the rally, said, “No Kings means exactly what it sounds like. It means that we’re not gonna allow tyrants and kings that we escaped Britain from, here in the U.S.”
The streets flooded with not only people but the roar of laughter and chants. Dubose added, “I’m here to hype people with chants. People are excited to be here, and protests should be fun.”
The protest was peaceful, beginning in Drake Park where sign-making, musical performances and public speaking took place. Representative Janelle Bynum, Senator Jeff Merkley, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read and Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler all spoke at the rally, addressing the thousands of protesters.
The protest continued with a march to Peace Corner. On the way to Peace Corner Bend’s local businesses showed their love and support by having water stations and employees even showcasing their own signs.
People with creative and humorous signs lined the streets of downtown, all with the same message, opposing the abuse of power that they feel the Trump administration has.
One of the protesters, Henry Mottl, said in reference to the Vulcan phrase in Star Trek “Live long and prosper.” The saying, a wish for greater connection and peace towards others, reflects Mottl’s hopes for less political polarization. Mottl went on to explain, “We need…to unite our country as it divides. So for you guys at Summit, please, please be part of uniting, not dividing.”
Mottl emphasized that the ability to protect future democracy is dependent on younger generations’ capacity to stay informed and proactive. That message was shown nationwide, millions gathered together all over the U.S. wanting peace, accountability and unity.
