“No Kings 2.0” protests are planned across the nation this Saturday. The first were held in June, and millions of people took part.
Sandpoint, Idaho, is a small ski town of around 10,000 people. Despite being in a red state, local Karen Matthee said many people showed up to the first peaceful protest.
“We have Republicans and Democrats. We have teachers and veterans, and young families and retired people,” said Matthee, who is helping to organize tomorrow’s event.
The rallies are organized by a coalition of progressive groups, including the ACLU and Indivisible chapters. These groups are calling it a day of action to stand up against what they say are threats to democracy.
One of the big issues people in Sandpoint are upset about is health care, said Matthee.
“We’ve already lost our labor and delivery here at our local hospital,” she said. “Future Medicaid cuts really pose an even deeper threat to our hospital.”
Sami Perry is a local teacher who helped organize tomorrow’s rally in Spokane, Washington.
“I had 2,000 flyers made up for the event, and they went out of my hands like hotcakes,” said Perry, who added that there has been an overwhelming response from people who want to be involved.
A local Spokane band will kick off the rally at B.A. Clark Park with music, followed by speakers and marches on Division Street, Perry said.
Events are also planned in Lewiston, Clarkston, Pomeroy and dozens of other cities around the Northwest.
“When you do something, you feel your power, rather than doomscrolling all day long,” said Julie Celeberti, who helped plan Coeur d’Alene’s rally.
Sign making parties were organized this time around, Celeberti said.
“I had to keep putting out tables and chairs, I mean, people just kept showing up,” she said about a recent party. “North Idaho is way more purple than they would have us think.”
Organizers said they have been working with local police departments to ensure demonstrations stay peaceful.
More than 2,500 No Kings events are scheduled across the country for tomorrow.
