It began as a kind of call and response: call by President Donald Trump to hold a parade marking the significance of his 79th birthday and the milestones in U.S. history of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, and the 250th celebration of July 4th. The response came by way of grassroots organizations like the 50501 Movement, who coined the phrase “No Kings Day”, and Indivisible, who work to mobilize people through volunteer-led initiatives in their own communities “against this fascist regime”, according to their website.
The first No Kings Day was held on June 14, 2025 and the second on October 18, 2025. No Kings Day began as a movement initiated by 50501 which represents: 50 protests, 50 states, one movement (or one day) to fight for democracy against fascism and the billionaire class.
According to the 50501 Movement’s website, there are over 165 chapters across the country representing 48 states, Connecticut being among the 48. On the CT 50501 Chapter’s page, they say in their work they: aim to protect democracy and uphold the Constitution. In solidarity with other protests across the country, on Saturday, October 17th over 250 people gathered on Paradise Green to join in the 4th National No Kings Day rally, and the second to be held in Stratford.
The signs held by many spoke volumes about their frustrations, fears, and so many other emotions. Richard Sylvester of Milford, and member of Indivisible, said of the rally, “It was very important right now to get as many votes as possible to unseat the corruption and support for this horrible administration!” His sentiment of “as many votes as possible” stems from the attempt by the Trump Administration to redistrict key areas in over five states; Virginia, California, Texas, Florida, Louisiana, and others so that the Republican Party has a greater chance at keeping a hold on being the majority party in the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives, and of course, the White House.
With the Voting Rights Act of 1965 weakened because of the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Louisiana v. Callais case this past April, Richard went on to say, and rather poignantly, “We must maintain our positive energy and do whatever we need to do together in community to not lose heart. Thirdly, the hard part is really ahead of us, whether it goes our way or not. They are not going to back down; we can’t!”
On the heels of this weekend’s No Kings Rally is early voting, which begins on Monday, October 19th. Click on these links to learn more about your voting rights, where to vote, and candidates running for federal office, state, and municipal elections.
