No Kings Rally--10/18/25

 

“If tomorrow all the things were gone that I have worked for throughout my life, and I had to start again with just my children and my wife.” That is the first line of God Bless the USA, one of the most patriotic songs I have ever heard.  Throughout my time as an activist, I keep reflecting on this, even now in 2025.  These words were first sung by Lee Greenwood, and should be remembered by all Americans; that we might have differing views, but one thing is clear, we didn’t bow down to King George III of England, and we certainly will not bow down to the former reality host of the Celebrity Apprentice. 

Want to know why I wanted to be at my local No Kings Day protest?  Because the cuts to Medicaid, specifically the cuts to home and community-based services to me continue to live independently weighed heavily. Let’s not forget the cruel and inhumane attacks on our freedoms that this administration has done; endorsed torture, threatened marriage equality, and threatened children with disabilities’ right to get a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. 

People were fooled into believing this time would be different, even though we saw what happened between 2017 and 2021.  We had inept leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic only made worse by misleading information. We also had fake outrage from Trump over the entire Take a Knee.   However, what should have been the straw that broke the camel’s back was January 6, 2021.

My mom, my personal care attendant, and I went to the NO KINGS rally at the Washington County Courthouse on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Some people have voted, yet I've never participated in a protest demanding a president's resignation. On the other hand, I've also never witnessed a president who seems to focus solely on themselves and expect loyalty exclusively to them.  

January 6, 2021, marked a turning point in our democracy, as the world watched in disbelief while rioters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to overturn the results of a free and fair election. The very foundation of our nation—our commitment to the peaceful transfer of power—was shaken, leaving a scar on the collective conscience of America. The events of January 6th serve as a sobering reminder of how fragile our institutions can be when truth and accountability are disregarded.  I fear that if given the chance he would do it again. 

It was a powerful experience standing shoulder to shoulder with neighbors, all of us united by a desire to defend democracy and protect the most vulnerable among us. The energy in the crowd was a blend of frustration, hope, and determination; we were there to make our voices heard and to demand accountability from those in power. In that moment, I realized that civic engagement isn't just a right—it's a responsibility, especially when the stakes are this high.

It was a powerful experience standing shoulder to shoulder with neighbors, all of us united by a desire to defend democracy and protect the most vulnerable among us. The energy in the crowd was a blend of frustration, hope, and determination; we were there to make our voices heard and to demand accountability from those in power.

Reflecting on my activism, I’ve been involved in direct action for years, thanks in large part to disability rights groups like ADAPT and efforts such as the housing authority strike. These movements taught me the importance of fighting for disability rights and affordable housing along with fare wages for the workers, and I’ve sat alongside passionate advocates demanding better policies and protections. Historically, it has been rare for us to advocate for a president’s resignation, regardless of political affiliation. Our demonstrations have generally concentrated on specific issues such as access, equity, dignity, and ending the institutional bias in healthcare, rather than urging leadership changes at the highest level. However, given the seriousness and immediacy of the current circumstances, coupled with a persistent, if you could even call him that, who threatens our fundamental rights and democratic standards, pursuing accountability appeared both justified and necessary.

In these turbulent times, the call to action has never been clearer. Our collective presence at the rally and continued advocacy prove that true patriotism lies in standing up for justice, equality, and the rights of all Americans. As history unfolds, it is our courage, unity, and unwavering commitment to democracy that will shape the future. Let us remain vigilant, engaged, and hopeful, knowing that real change is possible when we refuse to be silent in the face of injustice. Together, we can preserve the values that define our nation and ensure that liberty and justice truly remain for all.