Over 5,000 people gathered this past weekend in a powerful display of dissent during the “No Kings” protest, a grassroots demonstration aimed squarely at former President Donald Trump and what many attendees describe as the creeping authoritarianism of his influence. Despite being held in a predominantly conservative region, the protest stretched a mile-long loop through city streets, reverberating with chants, signs, and a shared determination to reclaim democracy from the grip of fear and silence.
For many in attendance, the protest wasn’t just political, it was personal.
“Honestly, it was for the people in my life that I hold dear,” said one protester, Alex Berland, “coupled with the feeling of not being heard by my own government. When the people sworn to protect my rights and the rights of my loved ones are the people actively trying to suppress those I directly care about, what else am I to do? Sitting around on the sidelines is no longer an option.”
The rallying cry “No Kings” echoed through the crowd, a pointed rejection of authoritarian leadership and what some view as Trump’s monarchical aspirations. “It means doing our best as the American people to make sure we don’t fall under the rule of another king,” Berland explained, “a self-proclaimed one nonetheless, when we fought so hard for our independence.”
Organized by a coalition of local activists, students, and concerned citizens, the protest was also attended by Congressman John Mannion, who walked among demonstrators and emphasized the importance of lawful, peaceful assembly. His presence was met with cheers and applause, many seeing it as a sign that their voices were being heard in high places.
The mood, according to Berland, was surprisingly hopeful. “There was a sense of community,” he said. “Considering we live in Upstate NY, the area we live in is mostly red and mainly MAGA supporters. But we made a mile-long loop with 5,000 people strong!”
While opposition to Trump was the main focus, other urgent causes surged through the protest. “There was absolutely a unified message with the crowd,” said Berland. “While most were mainly there for the No Kings protest, there was also the united message of Free Palestine and F*** ICE.”
For some, it was Trump’s most recent actions that finally spurred them to take to the streets. “I’ve not once agreed with anything he’s done, first or second term,” said Berland. “But these last six months have been atrocious, and who’s been suffering? We the people.”
Inspiration came from all corners, veterans, cancer patients, elderly residents, all converging on the same principle: protest is not only a right but a duty. “The more we protest,” said Berland, “the more we show others how easy it is to protest. The act of protecting is accessible to anyone. It was honestly inspiring.”
Though not everyone involved identified as longtime activists, their message was clear and unwavering. “What’s going on with Donald Trump is beyond politics at this point,” said Berland, “and solely about the fact he’s a tyrant drunk on power incessantly pushing for violence, corruption, and the suppression of the people. We won’t stand for it anymore and neither should anyone else.”
As the sun set on the crowded streets of Upstate New York, one thing was certain: the American people are watching, speaking out, and refusing to go quietly.
RIGHT ON!!!