Residents call for rule of law and constitutional protections during #NoKings rally
More than 400 people filled the sidewalks and street corners around the town square Saturday to take part in the national #NoKings protest. Inspired by the joy and absurdity of the Portland protests, many wore animal costumes and danced in the drizzle to send a message to Washington, D.C. that they are nonviolent and joyful — but still resist what they term as the president’s imperial ambitions.
“I think it’s great to stand with my community,” said La Conner resident Alexa Robbins, who joined the protest. “It’s really sad that it has come to this, but we need to stand in our strength, which is peace, not violence.”
The protest was one of 2,600 nationwide with a reported collective turnout of more than 7 million people. It was one of the biggest single days of protest against the Trump administration’s policies. The national No Kings organizers cited immigration detentions carried out by masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, aggressive cuts to federal education resources and environmental protections, gerrymandering and other concerns as reasons.
We’re done with that tyrant, that wannabe authoritarian. We’re done with that tyrant, that wannabe authoritarian.
Dan Lee
The one-hour, peaceful La Conner event drew attendees from nearby rural areas where no official protests were planned, including Stanwood, Camano Island and Edison. The vibe was celebratory and welcoming, and no counter protesters showed up.
“We’re done with that tyrant, that wannabe authoritarian,” said Dan Lee of La Conner, who worried about health care costs. “We’re standing up.”
Janie Morris of Shelter Bay said she was inspired by the local turnout.
“I’m feeling hopeful. I truly believe that no matter what the media is saying, look around” she said, gesturing to the crowds on the sidewalk. “We know that (what the administration is doing) is not right and not normal. We need the constitution. We need the rule of law.”
“We need to protect our constitution,” agreed Nancy Elliot, who lives between La Conner and Bellingham. “I want to be in La Conner with my neighbors as we show up for each other.”
Kari Mar is the editor and publisher of La Conner Community News.
