Diverse Voices Unite At Peaceful “No Kings” Protest In Tuscaloosa

Sign-hoisting, flag-waving and car-honking was loud but peaceful on the east side of the City of Tuscaloosa's Government Plaza Saturday.

The event was one of today's some 2,500 "No Kings" protests of President Trump and his administration across the nation and in some foreign countries. A multi-generational crowd of some 300 or so turned out for the second such protest downtown.

The make-up of the crowd covered a wide range of political persuasions from Republicans to Democrats, Libertarians, Independents, socialists, young, old and the just curious.

Get our free mobile app

The protestors at the Tuscaloosa event made it plain they are opposed to what they believe is Trump's authoritarian approach to the presidency this term.

Jill Chambliss of Tuscaloosa was one of the protestors holding a "No Kings" sign. "I'm upset with the current state of our country," she told this reporter. "I don't like the consolidation of power in the executive branch, and I don't like that Congress has abdicated its responsibilities."

The ongoing government shutdown brought criticism of both parties from some participants.

"Party politics are damaging our country, and I don't feel anybody on either side is listening to the people who are suffering the most from it," Carl Taylor said in explaining why he drove from East Mississippi to protest. "I fear we are moving further away from government for the people and by the people."

Connie, a UA student who did not want to give her last name, revealed she voted for Trump but is disappointed in the vengeful way his administration has sought to criminalize legitimate opposition.

"This is a democracy with constitutional free speech, but if you dare disagree with Trump, you are liable to have your door knocked down by masked police in the middle of the night," she said.

There were no violent incidents at today's rally in Tuscaloosa, just a few obscene gestures from some passing motorists. There were no issues last time either, but national organizers have voiced concerns that some far-right or far-left groups might attempt to disrupt today's events at some locations.

The obvious police presence at Government Plaza today was even smaller than during the last local protest.

One unidentified lady leaving the protest for a nearby lunch with friends in town for the Bama game tonight pointed to the sign-waving crowd as she crossed the street, "This is not about political parties, it is about America and its future."