No Kings Movement Stages Urgent Protest Across Arkansas Today

UPDATE: The No Kings movement has just staged its second major protest in Northwest Arkansas today, October 18, 2023, despite heavy thunderstorms disrupting the event. Activists are rallying to oppose what they label as authoritarian actions by President Donald Trump, emphasizing that “America has no kings.”

The grassroots group organized protests in four key locations: Bentonville from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Fayetteville from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Fort Smith from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Rogers from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Protesters displayed signs addressing various issues including immigration, healthcare, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The atmosphere was lively, featuring inflatable costumes that have become popular at recent protests.

“No Kings” protests are not limited to Arkansas; organizers report over 2,600 rallies held across the United States, including major cities like Washington, D.C., New York, and San Francisco. In Arkansas alone, there were 12 protests today, a slight decrease from 14 in June, indicating ongoing engagement despite weather challenges.

In Fayetteville, attendees rallied in support of the movement’s core message: “the power belongs to the people.” Attendee Caitlyn Oxford, chair of Washington County Democrats, stressed the importance of inclusivity, saying, “It’s not just about people of color. It’s about all the people in the United States that deserve to be cared for.”

The protests were peaceful, mirroring the success of the June demonstrations, which also saw robust turnout. Lisa Childs, co-leader of Indivisible NWA, expressed the group’s commitment to a government that serves all citizens.

In a recent response to the movement, President Trump stated, “They say they’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king,” in an interview with Fox News on October 17. This statement adds to the tension surrounding the ongoing protests.

Looking ahead, the No Kings movement is planning a virtual event on Tuesday, October 21, from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern, where participants will discuss the protests and outline future activities.

As these developments unfold, the No Kings movement continues to garner attention and support, making it a significant force in the ongoing national dialogue regarding governance and representation in America. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.