While the event’s focus was on opposition to perceived government overreach, others attended to express peaceful support for the current president.
Photo by Ciera Bierbaugh

Different Views, Shared Values: London’s Peaceful ‘No Kings’ Protest

By Ciera Bierbaugh

Hundreds gathered in front of Madison County Courthouse on “No Kings Day,” holding signs that read “Due Process for All” and “We the People Do Hereby Decree No Kings Will Rule Us.” The demonstration echoed similar protests held across the United States.

The crowd was diverse—families, young people, and older residents all gathered in a shared spirit. Demonstrating their rights. Parents brought their children, and even a protester dressed as Uncle Sam joined in. Protests highlighted the importance of the First Amendment, which safeguards the ability to gather and speak out—and, equally, the right for those stories to be told.

While the event’s focus was on opposition to perceived government overreach, others attended to express peaceful support for the current president. Despite national tensions amid the ongoing government shutdown, the atmosphere in London remained largely respectful, with demonstrators from both sides showing civility and kindness.

Organizers reported that approximately 2,600 protests were planned nationwide. This marked the second organized “No Kings” demonstration. NPR previously reported a turnout of five million participants during the first protest in June, though this second wave is said to have drawn even larger numbers.

(Please note that some differing opinions regarding this story will be published in our Letter to the Editor section)