On Saturday, October 18 2025, millions of people across the United States plan to participate in a coordinated series of demonstrations under the banner “No Kings.”
The movement targets what its organizers say is a growing authoritarian drift in the second term of Donald Trump’s presidency.
The term “No Kings” reflects the central grievance that President Trump’s policies and rhetoric increasingly resemble those of a ruler rather than a democratically accountable president.
Protesters state instances such as deployment of federal or National Guard troops to cities without local consent, perceived erosion of civil-liberties protections (especially free speech), and administrative decisions that critics call unilateral or above the rule of law.
Organizers say the October event builds on the June 2025 mobilization, when the first major nationwide “No Kings” day drew millions of participants in more than 2,000 locations.
Today’s action is intended to amplify dissent ahead of what some see as accelerating institutional risks, and to demonstrate broad public opposition.
More concretely, the protests raise objections to:
- Immigration enforcement tactics believed to bypass judicial review;
- Cuts or pressure on educational or civil-rights institutions deemed critical of the administration;
- Use of military or federal force in domestic settings in ways perceived as intimidating dissent;
- A general trend of centralizing power in the executive branch, critics say.
Although there is heated partisan rhetoric with some conservative leaders calling the event “anti-American” or aligned with radical groups, organizers emphasize that the intention is a non-violent, peaceful assembly. No weapons, de-escalation training for volunteers, and strict adherence to lawful protest.
De-escalation and Safety Tips for Participants
The official No Kings guide outlines how participants can reduce risk and keep events non-violent:
- Stay calm and disengage: Do not engage with provocaters. If a situation looks tense, step back and alert a safety volunteer.
- Keep distance: Avoid standing close to anyone who is acting aggressively. Record only if safe, and without escalating.
- Non-threatening posture: Use a calm voice, open hands, and non-aggressive body language.
- Redirect energy: Shift focus to peaceful chants or songs instead of confrontation.
- Step away if tension rises: Crowds can amplify conflict. Moving to a quieter space helps.
- No weapons: The movement prohibits weapons of any kind, even those otherwise legal.
The emphasis is on intentional de-escalation. Organizers remind participants that protests are most effective when they remain non-violent and lawful.
Be Familiar With Your Rights
The No Kings site also highlights practical legal protections for protestors:
- First Amendment rights: Peaceful assembly and expression are constitutionally protected. If you’re on public property, you generally have the right to protest and to record in plain view.
- If approached by police: Ask, “Am I free to leave?” If yes, walk away calmly. If no, you may state that you wish to remain silent and request a lawyer.
- Don’t sign anything without counsel: You are not required to sign forms or statements before seeing an attorney.
- For non-citizens: You still have the right to remain silent. You don’t have to reveal immigration status unless required by law. Carry documentation if your status requires it, and memorise your immigration number.
- Documentation: If detained or arrested, record officer names, badge numbers, and details as soon as possible after release.
Organizers advise that while these rights exist, law enforcement responses can vary. Preparation and calm behavior help reduce risks.
General Safety Recommendations
Alongside de-escalation and rights awareness, here are practical steps for anyone attending:
- Know the route: Stick to official rally zones and identify exits.
- Go with others: Have a buddy plan and a meeting point in case of separation.
- Pack light: Bring water, ID, snacks, and a phone charger. Leave valuables at home.
- Dress for comfort: Shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothes.
- Stay informed: Follow live updates and monitor for crowd shifts or police activity.
- Exit early if needed: Plan a safe way home; don’t linger if tensions rise.
There Are No Kings in America
Being in a protest scenario also means heightened awareness. The majority of participants intend to be peaceful and purposeful, yet large crowds come with unpredictable dynamics. Plan clearly, go with purpose, stay safe.
Photo Credit: No Kings Protest, USA (Christopher Penler/shutterstock)
