On Saturday, “No Kings” protests will be happening across the U.S., including throughout Massachusetts.
The “No Kings” movement is a “peaceful national day of action and mass mobilization in response to the increasing authoritarian excesses and corruption of the Trump administration,” according to the organization’s website.
Not all demonstrations will look the same but could include marching, rallies, gathering at a congressional district office or a banner drop.
Here’s what you need to know about the events in Massachusetts.
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No Kings protest in Westfield
What is ‘No Kings’?
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The organizers behind “No Kings” have asked people to publicly stand “together against the abuses of power, cruelty, and corruption,” specifically targeting President Donald Trump.
“Whether you’re outraged by attacks on civil rights, skyrocketing costs, abductions and disappearances, the gutting of essential services, or the assault on free speech, this moment is for you. Whether you’ve been in the fight for years or you’re just fed up and ready to take action, this moment is for you,” the website states.
Earlier this year, protests were held across the country on June 14, coinciding with Trump’s birthday and a military parade planned in the nation’s capital.
More than 100 rallies across Massachusetts included people carrying signs, wearing costumes and identifying themselves as members of everything from the Sisters of Saint Joseph to the American Legion, Mass Senior Action Council and the Young Feminist Party.
“This is the end of the beginning,” said Ron Bucchino, of Agawam, who attended Northampton’s June event. “We are going to be out here for a longtime. We are going to be out here for months. We are going to be out here for years.”
The organization is again asking people to come out on Oct. 18.
Where are they in Massachusetts?
Events are scattered throughout Massachusetts, including in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Pittsfield, Greenfield, Provincetown.
The events also range in time, with some starting in the morning and others going until Saturday night.
Here’s where to find an event near you.
What will they look like?
The demonstrations might look different depending on where you go.
“This is not a typical rally: learn how to get involved locally at our action tables, participate in creative resistance and enjoy entertainment on our main stage,” the Boston event states.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is also expected to speak during that city’s event.
They have also provided three calls to action. These are: joining a community ICE watch group, boycotting “corporations and billionaires that are doing Trump’s bidding,” and keeping pressure on representatives by calling, emailing and showing up in person.
“We’re wicked [expletive]. Wicked loud. Wicked united,” the website states.
At Institute Park in Worcester, U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern and others are scheduled to speak. The rally will also include letter tents and information. The park is at 82 Salisbury St. near Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Campus parking will not be available, so plan for parking accordingly, organizers advise.
Those in Amherst have been asked to bring signs. And those in Great Barrington are gathering in front of the town hall.
Songs and chants might also be used. The “No Kings” website provided these resources prior to Saturday.
Safety
The organization is stressing nonviolent action and no civil disobedience for Saturday.
It has asked people to “seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events.” Plus, weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to the events.
Peacekeepers might be used to help direct crowds and de-escalate conflicts, which are trained volunteers.
Local organizers are also asked to have first aid and medical help for participants.
“This could be anything from a station with water and a first-aid kit to hiring local EMTs to be on-site,” the website explains.
It also encourages local organizers to think through how to explain where restrooms are located and what happens in the event of arrests.
Finally, the ACLU has encouraged everyone to “know your rights.”
“Make sure you’re prepared by brushing up on your rights before heading out into the streets,” the ACLU website states.
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