no kings protest 10/18

We Rise Because There Are No Kings: A Call to Protest on October 18

The time has come. Across America, people are preparing to take to the streets once again on October 18 to reclaim democracy, resist authoritarianism, and make clear: we have no kings. The No Kings movement invites millions of voices into one unified chorus, declaring that power lies with us — the people. No Kings

What Is “No Kings”?

“No Kings” is not a mere protest — it’s a national day of action. It builds on earlier uprisings in June when diverse coalitions came together to counter what many see as escalating threats to democratic norms. No Kings Now, the movement is back, bigger and more urgent.

The organizers frame the moment as democracy vs. dictatorship: they assert that attempts to centralize power, silence voters, deploy militarized agents domestically, or cater to billionaires over families are not policy disagreements — they are existential threats. No Kings

Alongside the central demonstration day, No Kings is offering trainings, know-your-rights workshops, de-escalation sessions, and organizing calls to help local communities plan safe, powerful events. No Kings

Why October 18 Matters — And Why It Must Be Big

• Visibility & solidarity: When a movement shows up in many cities at once, it’s harder to ignore. The ripple effect can reach beyond local media coverage.

• Momentum building: Protests alone rarely accomplish everything. This day is intended as a spark — the start of sustained pressure. No Kings

• Moral stakes: The organizers present this as more than politics — a moral stand. They emphasize that nonviolent protest is sacred, a voice of conscience, not just a tactic. No Kings

• Escalation of authoritarian tactics: The movement argues those in power are pushing harder — more surveillance, more suppression. Showing strength now may slow or reverse that trend. No Kings

What You Should Know Before You Go

Because this is a high-stakes moment, a few practical tips are essential:

1. Know your rights
   The No Kings site offers a “Know Your Rights” toolkit. Understand what police can and cannot legally do (e.g. about search, arrest, questions, staying silent). No Kings

2. Training and de-escalation
   Attend the movement’s training sessions ahead of time — for protest safety and de-escalation strategies. These are designed to reduce harm if tensions arise. No Kings

3. Nonviolence is central
   The organizers explicitly require that participants commit to nonviolent action. Weapons — even if legally permitted elsewhere — are banned. No Kings

4. Coordinate locally
   If your city has a No Kings event, connect with local organizers. Participate in the planning, know the route, know where first aid / legal observers might be.

5. Document but don’t provoke
   Filming or recording can protect you and others, but be tactful. Avoid taking actions likely to incite confrontation.

6. Prepare for aftermath
   Protests don’t end just because people disperse. Be ready for follow-ups: calls, petitions, pressure campaigns. No Kings itself is organizing “what’s next” events post-October 18 to build continuity. No Kings

Risks & Critiques — What to Consider

Every large protest carries risks — for participants, bystanders, and the message. Some thoughtful caveats:

• Crackdowns and overreaction: In some regions, authorities may respond harshly. You should evaluate personal risk — both legal and physical.

• Media framing: The protest’s message can be twisted or overshadowed by isolated incidents. Maintaining discipline and clarity is critical.

• Movement fatigue: One day of protest is strong, but sustained change requires strategy, resources, and follow-through beyond the day itself.

• Fragmentation: The more diverse the coalition, the more careful organizers must be to maintain unity without erasing local contexts.

I believe the No Kings day has real potential to shift narratives and galvanize people. But like any large movement, its success will depend on discipline, coordination, follow-through, and protecting vulnerable participants.