On Saturday, October 18th, local South Lake Tahoe and surrounding area residents came together with millions of Americans across the country in a nationwide day of nonviolent protest at the second No Kings Day of Action. There were 2700 events nationwide, which recorded as many as 8.2 million attendees according to www.nokings.org.

The SLT No Kings Rally was the next step in this growing movement, channeling that energy into yet another coordinated, peaceful mobilization. There were people of all ages, ethnic groups, and religions lining Highway 50 on both sides of the street from the Middle School to Safeway. The unofficial estimate of the number of attendees was 2,150.

It was a joyful and peaceful environment with all types of signs, costumes, a drum circle, chants from the crowd, patriotic music and smiles all around! The South Lake Tahoe No Kings rally epitomized the shared commitment to nonviolent protest and community safety. This community was a part of one of the largest, single-day, peaceful protests in modern American history!

Susan Chandler, chairperson for the South Lake Tahoe Democratic Club, reacted to Saturday’s event, “The No Kings Rally on October 18th was energizing and inspirational. It demonstrated that our community stands for inclusion, democracy and freedom of expression. It was heartwarming to see over 2000 of our community members come together to display unity and enthusiasm to stand up for democracy and to stand against authoritarian rule.”

Colleen Bye, Indivisible chapter host, said, “I am deeply moved and beyond grateful for the incredible number of people who came together in unity for the No Kings event. Our community showed that love for America and concern for its direction can be expressed powerfully and peacefully when we stand together.”

The organizers wish to thank all the partnering organizations that made our Rally so successful: SLT Democratic Club, SLT Indivisible, SLT Solidarity Network, and the newly established Young Democrats Committee at LTCC. Many local non-profits helped amplify the message and brought thousands of residents together for this event.

A wonderful time was had by all who participated on Saturday. Stay tuned for the next opportunity to have your voice heard through peaceful protest.

-Event lead Amy Machin-Ward, Beck Machin-Ward

South Lake Tahoe