Approximately 600 individuals gathered on Saturday, October 18, 2023, in the parking lot of Willmar Middle School to peacefully protest against what they perceive as a shift toward authoritarianism by the current U.S. Administration. The event, dubbed a “No Kings” rally, underscored the desire for a democratic system rather than a monarchical one. Participants held placards with messages such as “Save democracy from autocracy,” reflecting their commitment to preserving democratic values.
A representative from the American Civil Liberties Union addressed the crowd, drawing from personal experiences to highlight the importance of due process in immigration enforcement. The representative emphasized that government actions, particularly regarding deportation raids, must adhere to legal standards, including the necessity of warrants. They asserted that local law enforcement should not collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in what they described as harsh tactics against nonviolent, undocumented individuals.
Karen Kramer, a member of the Willmar Area League of Voters, reinforced the significance of civic engagement. She articulated the necessity for residents to actively participate in peaceful protests and to defend democratic principles. In a poignant statement, Kramer noted that these expressions of dissent are vital for maintaining the integrity of democratic systems.
The rally featured a diverse crowd, including a veteran of the U.S. Air Force who spoke against the militarization of law enforcement against U.S. citizens. The veteran urged attendees to remain vigilant in protecting the Constitution, ensuring fair elections, and advocating for accessible healthcare. The atmosphere was charged with energy, as participants sang songs like “Give Peace a Chance” and “We Love America,” creating a sense of unity among those present.
Strong messages were displayed on placards throughout the gathering, with slogans such as “No kings, no autocracy,” “When tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty,” and “Basic humanity is not radical.” The prevailing sentiment among attendees was clear: “No crowns, no thrones, no kings.”
While the majority of the rally maintained a focused political message, a few younger individuals at the edge of the crowd attempted to redirect attention toward a religious context, suggesting recognition of God as King. Their presence did not significantly disrupt the rally, but it highlighted the diverse perspectives within the gathering.
The peaceful protest in Willmar served as a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to safeguarding democratic values and ensuring that every voice is heard in the political process. As the participants dispersed, the message of unity and resistance against autocracy lingered, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement in contemporary society.
