Hundreds Rally in Manhattan as Part of Nationwide ‘No Kings’ Protest Against Trump Policies

Philip Nel one of the co-coordinators of the protest talks into a microphone. Courtesy: Nate Lowen

MANHATTAN, Kan. - Hundreds of people gathered April 18 near City Park in Manhattan to participate in the "No Kings" protest, joining a nationwide demonstration challenging the policies of the Trump administration.

The event was organized locally by Indivisible MHK and was part of the 50501 movement, a grassroots campaign that aimed to stage 50 protests in 50 states under one movement. According to a news release from 50501, the protests sought to challenge what organizers described as "the draconian policies of the Trump administration."

Protesters lined the street across from City Hall, holding signs and chanting in support of democracy. Organizers said the location was chosen for its visibility and proximity to local government offices.

"I am a son of immigrants to this country. I grew up believing that American democracy was inevitable. I believe that it is the best way to govern a people. It is the best way for people’s voices to be heard. It is the best way to make change. And if you don’t defend democracy, you lose it," Co-Coordinator & member of Indivisible MHK Philip Nel said.

First-time protester, Lane Lundeen, described the event as peaceful and inclusive, with a diverse crowd representing various ages and backgrounds. "It’s really encouraging hearing all the honking. It’s nice to know that there’s a lot of supporters in Manhattan," a first-time protester said. "It’s also nice to see the differences in age as well as demographic. There’s a lot of different people here.”

Organizers noted the protest’s timing coincided with an anticipated report from the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense on whether to advise President Donald Trump to invoke the Insurrection Act, which could have led to the suppression of protests nationwide. After the April 20 deadline, officials announced they would not recommend such action.

The Manhattan demonstration was one of more than 400 events held across the country as residents voiced concerns about the future of American democracy and called for renewed civic engagement and accountability from elected leaders.