Downtown Asheville filled with demonstrators for the “No Kings” protest on Saturday, Oct. 18, as part of a nationwide movement opposing the Trump administration and what many perceive as authoritarian leadership.
Organized by Indivisible Asheville and the Western Region NC Poor People’s Campaign, the event drew thousands to Pack Square Park. No Kings protests were organized in other towns in Western North Carolina: Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Burnsville, Brevard, Marion, Spindale, Sylva, Bryson City, and Highlands. Protestors carried signs, chanted slogans, and shared live music as they expressed their frustrations and called for accountability.
One protester shared their perspective on the administration’s actions.
Another protester was vocal about their opposition:
“I believe that Donald Trump has overstepped in incredible ways. He has declared war on the American people,” they said. “I am against his policies. I am against the way that he treats women. I think he’s a rapist. I think he’s a murderer, and I think he gives money to his cronies, and he takes money for himself, and he’s 100% out there for himself, not for the American people.”
Chants echoed through the streets as the march spread across downtown.
“Power to the people”
“We are unstoppable”
“Show me what democracy looks like”
“No fascist USA”
The energy in the crowd became contagious, with participants from all demographics voicing their frustrations.
The No Kings protest took place in more than 2,700 locations nationwide. Participants said the movement aims to highlight what they see as a collapse of democracy and an urge for the government to serve its people rather than a single individual.
